NSDD 85 Eliminating the Threat from Ballistic Missiles

URCLASSIFIED March 25, 1983 Eliminating The Threat From Ballistic Missiles It is my policy to take every opportunity to reduce world tensions and enhance stability. Our efforts to achieve significant reductions in strategic offensive forces and to eliminate LRINF land based missiles are one approach to that aim. However, it is my long range goal to go beyond this. I would like to decrease our reliance on the threat of retaliation by offensive nuclear weapons and to increase the contribution To of defensive systems to our security and that of our allies. begin to move us toward that goal, I have concluded that we should explore the possibility of using defensive capabilities to counter the threat posed by nuclear ballistic missiles. I direct the development of an intensive effort to define a long term research and development program aimed at an ultimate goal of eliminating the threat posed by nuclear ballistic missiles. These actions will be carried out in a manner consistent with for our obligations under the ABM Treaty and recognizing the need close consultations with our allies. In order to provide the necessary basis for this effort, I the roles that ballistic missile defense could play in further direct a study be completed on a priority basis future to assess other items, the study will provide guidance necessary to 85 develop security strategy of the United States and our allies. Among research and development funding commitments for the FY Departmental budgets and the accompanying Five-Year Defense Program (FYDP) The Assistant to the President for National Security Affairs is assigned for implementing this NSDD including organization, assignment of the responsibility to formulate detailed instructions responsibilities, and completion dates. Full Text of NSDD 85 UNCI ASSIFIED