Rationale and requirements for U.S. nuclear forces and arms control: executive report

This article examines the methodology needed to assess U.S. arms control positions and nuclear force requirements, focusing on official policy, public proposals for nuclear disarmament, and analysis that should precede these recommendations. The panel of experts discuss changes in the post-Cold War era that have effect startegic planning, potential threats and requirements of deterrence, and the need to maintain offensive and defensive forces; the authors suggest that arms control should focus on consultation, coordination and transparency, rather than the traditional bipolar startegy of treaties of Mutual Assured Destruction perpetuated during the Cold War.