OPINION:
“Biden administration’s growing disconnect on nuclear deterrence priorities” (Web, Aug. 16) correctly identifies a problem facing our security. Ms. Geller has, however, identified one-third of a problem that has been developing for the past four decades and is certainly being enhanced by the present administration.
In March 1983 President Reagan expressed his concern about the policy of deterrence through Mutual Assured Destruction, and attempted to reinforce security by the introduction of a robust anti-missile defense. Successive administrations have kept the program of ABM defense alive but have not progressed deployments beyond ground- and sea-based systems with limited ability.
Concurrently the whole industry supporting the nuclear-warhead development that provides our offensive deterrence has been allowed to decline. As pointed out in the commentary piece, the offensive systems have remained virtually dormant, other than life-extension work on the aging systems.
In the absence of stimulating new programs, experienced staff drifted away and facilities declined. The longer we wait to reinvigorate the industry itself and undertake the R&D required for new, modern warheads, the harder the task becomes, and the longer it will take to reach fruition.
Our deterrence posture has certainly declined, and work on supporting nuclear industry, re-awakening of the national laboratories, and the development of a genuinely effective ABM defense are all needed.
Realistically, it will take a change of administration to achieve these goals.
STANLEY ORMAN
Rockville, Md.
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