ICBMS-Their Relevance to US Security and The United States Air Force in the 21st Century

Abstract

Abstract : Intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) have had and continue to have a variety of impacts on the United State Air Force. National security guidance, including a recent nuclear policy review, make clear the expected existence of ICBMs for the foreseeable future. At the same time, the relevance of ICBMs to the nation is not wholly clear. The numbers and types of nuclear arms continue to be negotiated away, and there is some academic discussion on the continued need for the traditional strategic force posture the nuclear triad. The Air Force is articulating requirements for a new land-based strategic nuclear deterrent as well as conducting studies for long-range strike capabilities. Also, the idea of projecting power with a conventional warhead on a ballistic missile at intercontinental ranges is prominent in some circles, offering a means to strike targets rapidly with minimal reaction times. Historically, though, the Air Force neglected the ICBM, and their development was slowed by the Air Force's focus on the manned strategic bomber. For the last three decades of the Cold War, ICBMs steadily supplanted bombers as the Air Force's main contribution to the national nuclear deterrence posture. However, this favoritism as well as a neglect of deterrence theory contributed to an Air Force indicted by Carl Builder for emphasizing the airplane over other means of delivering firepower. Overall, the Air Force needs familiarity with various issues associated with the ICBM, for with the right emphasis this cold war weapon system can stay viable throughout the coming century.