JSPES, Vol. 26, No. 2 (Summer 2001 )
pp. 387-399

The Future of European Missile Defense Systems

Sydney Orman

The reasons for the lack of interest of European allies in missile defense are reviewed. It is concluded that although previous analyses have indicated that there has been no desire to invest in such systems, a number of external triggering events have occurred which should cause them to re-examine their policies. The new Bush administration appears ready to provide the necessary positive leadership and assistance required to draw European allies into a regional missile defense. Without agreeing to cooperate in such activities it is likely that the security policy of the European nations acting individually, or even cohesively outside of NATO, could become so severely constrained that Europe would cease to be a major force in international affairs.