Changes

==Stability vs. Instability==

==Stability vs. Instability==

Alterations in the basic premeses of MAD had the potential to destabilize the balance between the US and USSR, possibly igniting nuclear conflict.  Therefore, much time and energy went into debating even small changes in policy.

Anti-Ballistic Missile systems (ABMs) are systems or weapons designed to intercept and destroy incoming weapons systems, usually [[intercontinental ballistic missile]]s (ICBMs).  Since this could theoretically prevent a fatal retaliatory strike from an opponent, ABMs are considered inherently destabilizing.  This fact lead to the [[Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty]], which allowed both sides limited deployment of ABM systems.  The [[Strategic Defense Initiative]] (SDI), which began development under [[Ronald Reagan|Ronald Reagan's]] administration despite existance of the ABM treaty, was thought by some groups, especially the [[Union of Concerned Scientists]], to represent a destabilization of MAD. Current American governmental policy sees this treaty as having become irrelevant with the demise of the USSR.

First strike systems are those which either preserve a fatal second strike component, or entail independent & undetectable first strike systems.  '''SLBMs'''', or [[submarine launched ballistic missile]]s, are one type of first strike system employed heavily by the United States.  The USSR, employed '''RLBMs''', or rail-mounted ballistic missiles, which is to say that the USSR would use their massive railway system to furtively move and conceal a potent first strike or deterrent system.

Anti-Ballistic Missile systems (ABMs) are weapons systems designed to intercept and destroy incoming weapons systems, usually Inter-Continental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs).  Since this could theoretically prevent a fatal retaliatory strike from an opponent, ABMs are considered inherently destabilizing.  This fact lead to the ABM treaty, which allowed both sides limited deployment of ABM systems.  Current American governmental policy sees this treaty as having become irrelevant with the demise of the USSR.

 

 

"First Strike" systems are those which either preserve a fatal second strike component, or entail independent & undetectable first strike systems.  '''"SLBMs"'''', or submarine-launched ballistic missiles, are one time of first strike system employed heavily by the United States.  The USSR, in the Cold War, employed '''"RLBMs"''', or rail-mounted ballistic missiles, which is to say that the USSR would use their massive railway system to furtively move and conceal a potent first strike or deterrent system.

==Destabilization Events==

==Destabilization Events==