Implications of the Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty on ballistic missile defense

This study determines the implications of the 1972 Anti-Ballistic Missile (ABM) Treaty on Ballistic Missile Defense development and deployment.; This study includes a historical background of the ABM Treaty, recent negotiations to change the treaty in order to develop a national missile defense system to protect against possible attacks from rogue nations.; A strategy for reconciling the ABM Treaty restrictions with development of a national missile defense is given so the United States can ensure national security while maintaining crucial diplomatic relations with Russia. President Clinton should allow a joint U.S.-Russian six-month study on ballistic missile threats. The results of this study can be used to prove the need for the United States to develop a national missile defense system. If Clinton cannot come to acceptable negotiations with Russia during the remainder of his administration, the next President should give a six-month warning prior to ending ties to the ABM Treaty. Then the United States should deploy a ballistic missile defense system.