Summary: To counter Soviet nuclear advances, a long-standing U.S. national defense goal has been intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) modernization. One such modernization initiative is the Small ICBM program, which rests on the belief that a small ICBM would provide greater flexibility in developing basing concepts to enhance ICBM survivability. The Defense Department's plans for deploying the system are uncertain at this time and unresolved issues remain concerning the system configuration, acquisition costs, and deployment milestones. Until DOD provides updated direction, program funding needs are uncertain. Questions also remain concerning (1) the missile's ability to effectively damage hardened facilities and cover the designated target base and (2) the visibility of the missile design and the availability of parts for several missile components and the warhead. While the Air Force is confident of meeting these needs, it is not providing enough information in its reports to Congress to permit meaningful oversight.
