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.
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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. The period between the beginning of the development of such a system and the point at which it becomes operational represents a closing window for an adversary's first strike. 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.