An evaluation of potential countermeasures to the strategic defense initiative.

Abstract

The key uncertainty within the Strategic Defense Initiative is not whether a multitiered ballistic missile defense can be designed and implemented but rather in the possibility that the intercept system can be readily countered. Additionally, the viability of SDI is dependent upon its cost effectiveness; a defense should not be considered if it can be overcome at a significantly lesser cost. To quantify these uncertainties, the Strategic Defense Initiative is overviewed at a macro level. Potential countermeasures to proposed defensive technologies are defined and analyzed as to their feasibility and the possible leverage, both in cost and in further uncertainty, that the use of the countermeasure would provide. The study also addresses possible counter-countermeasures, where applicable. The results of the study can be used to provide input parameters to systems simulations and system analyses of SDI architectures and as an indicator of further study areas.