Senators Feinstein and Stevens Express Concern that Nuclear Tipped Warheads
May be Used as Part of National Missile Defense
Thursday, May 23, 2002

Washington, DC - U.S. Senators Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) and Ted Stevens (R-AK) have expressed concerns that the Department of Defense may be considering research into the use of nuclear tipped warheads as part of a ballistic missile defense system.

In a letter to Senate Armed Services Chairman Carl Levin and Ranking Member John Warner, Feinstein and Stevens wrote:

"At last month's Appropriations Defense Subcommittee hearing on Missile Defense, we raised this issue with General Kadish, who indicated his agency would not pursue such a policy. While we are encouraged by the General's comments, we believe that there should be no ambiguity regarding the ramifications associated with the use of nuclear tipped warheads as part of a missile defense system, and the Senate must send a clear message on this issue."

"We look forward to working with you during consideration of the National Defense Authorization bill for 2003 to craft an appropriate position that reflects the Senate's determination on this matter."

Senators Feinstein and Stevens were concerned about earlier reports that the Administration was considering nuclear tipped interceptors and language in the House Defense Authorization bill that appears to endorse this concept.

###