ICBM (Intercontinental Ballistic Missile) Modernization: Status, Survivable Basing Issues, and Need to Reestablish a National Concensus

The primary objective of U.S. strategic nuclear forces is deterrence of nuclear war. The deterrent value of U.S. strategic forces rests on their ability to retaliate with appropriate force after a surprise attack. To counter Soviet nuclear advances, the President has given the highest priority to the modernization of strategic nuclear forces. This report concentrates on the status of land based Intercontinental Ballistics Missile ICBM modernization- with emphasis on the development of survivable means of basing for Peacekeeper also referred to as MX and Small ICBM also referred to as Midgetman. Important decisions are to be made in the near future on these systems. GAO prepared this report to assist the Congress in its consideration of these decisions. GAO emphasized survivable basing because it has been and continues to be a key issue.