51. Missile Defence and European Security
- Author:
- François Heisbourg, Klaus Becher, Alexander Pikayev, and Ivo H. Daalder
- Publication Date:
- 05-2001
- Content Type:
- Working Paper
- Institution:
- Centre for European Policy Studies
- Abstract:
- European NATO countries have been spectators to the debate about defending the US against ballistic missile attacks. While there have been national differences in Europe's reactions to the national missile defence (NMD) programme, it is obvious that most Europeans don't like it. The French seem somewhat more convinced than others that missile defence is inherently foolish and unworkable. Some British experts seem to insist more than others that any programme that might undermine NATO's nuclear deterrence and strategic unity should be avoided. And perhaps Germans, more than others, worry about perceived dangers to the ABM and other arms control treaties, and generally about relations with Russia. Most Europeans at present believe that US defence against long-range ballistic missiles is a slap in the face for Russia, a dangerous provocation for China and an inadequate response to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and missile technology.
- Topic:
- Security, Defense Policy, NATO, and Terrorism
- Political Geography:
- Russia, United States, China, Europe, and Germany