Russia Might Target U.S. Missile Defenses in Europe

Russia could be preparing plans to attack future U.S. missile defense sites in Europe, Interfax reported yesterday (see GSN, Aug. 2).

The possible deployment of U.S. missile defenses close to Russian borders would force Russia to take steps to ensure its ability to launch strategic missiles, said retired Maj. Gen. Vladimir Belous, a scientist at Moscow’s Institute of World Economy and International Affairs (IMEMO).  The United States is currently discussing such a deployment with the Czech Republic, Hungary and Poland (see related GSN story, today).

“Our military doctrine envisages that Russian armed forces are allowed to attack installations in foreign countries that threaten its security,” he said.

Before resorting to attacking U.S. sites, though, Russia would need to shorten the boost phase of its missiles to decrease the period of flight when the missiles would be most vulnerable to interception, Belous said.

“The reduction of the time of sustained flight to 130 seconds will make it impossible for any kinetic interceptors to engage such missile[s],” he said.

In addition, Russia could consider other countermeasures, including making its weapons more stealthy to radar and deploying anti-interceptor missiles, according to Belous (Interfax, Sept. 20).

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