Assessment of Strategic Missile Defense Capability

The American Physical Society recommends that technical assessments of strategic missile defense systems be based on a rigorous testing program under realistic conditions and involve regular independent review, as is the case with other military systems.

The goal of strategic missile defense systems is to protect the United States from a small number of nuclear-armed, long-range ballistic missiles. The effects of nuclear weapons can be devastating: A single nuclear weapon can destroy a major city and kill millions of people, and dozens could end a functioning society.

Given the catastrophic consequences of a nuclear attack, careful technical assessments of missile defense systems designed to counter nuclear-armed ballistic missiles provide essential knowledge for decision makers. Effective government oversight of these programs relies on accurate knowledge of system capabilities. If strategic missile defense systems are inadequately tested and their capabilities poorly known, US decision makers may overestimate their ability to protect the nation, and the risk of
nuclear weapon use may be increased.

The review process for any statement may be started at any time if deemed necessary by the Panel on Public Affairs, and at least once every five years.