The Bush Administration has already signaled its intention to proceed with national missile defense in some form. This paper examines the desirability, feasibility, and risks and costs of missile defense in the context of the NATO alliance. It lays out a concrete and comprehensive approach to strategic offensive and defensive arms and arms control policy and aims to be the basis for U.S.-European discussion and an aid in the search for common ground. The authors conclude by looking at the new realities that European leaders must confront and the key questions they need to answer as the United States proceeds with missile defense.

"The research described in this report was conducted jointly by Stiftung Wissenschaft und Politik (SWP) and Rand Europe"--T.p. verso. "IP-206"--P. [4] of cover.

Failure and opportunity -- Strategic conditions during the Cold War -- What has changed? -- Is missile defense needed? -- Is missile defense feasible? -- Does missile defense warrant the costs and risks? -- Other measures to counter the WMD danger -- An integrated strategy -- What is next for Europe? -- Conclusion.