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Executive Summary
Pages 1-6

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From page 1...
... national security organizational structure, creating challenges to effective and timely command and control should they be employed against U.S. forces or the United States itself, as described in Box 1.
From page 2...
... systems, the United States has maintained a robust global presence sustained by air and sea lines of communication and overseen by a rapidly responsive command and control infra structure. The United States relies on this presence to exercise policy options that support its friends and allies, defend its own national security interests, conduct humanitarian relief, and promote other initiatives.
From page 3...
... High-speed maneuvering weapons could pose a challenge to all three core elements of the USAF -- and be an impediment to the application of global power in key regions of the planet. Both the People's Republic of China and the Russian Federation have flown examples of this class of weapon, and other countries have shown interest in many of the underlying technologies for hypersonic flight.
From page 4...
... Both categories of high-speed weapons may be capable of carrying conventional or nuclear warheads, thereby complicating strategic intent and posture as well as operational identifica tion, response, and engagement. Both types of systems operate below the classical ballistic missile trajectory and above typical low-speed cruise missile operating altitudes.
From page 5...
... Fortunately, MDA leadership has been very forward-leaning in addressing this situation, and there have been recent positive developments.2 Although a detailed analysis of proliferation issues is beyond the scope of this report, it is only logical that pursuing solutions in an integrated manner would provide policy developers a sense of direction, as well as offer the diplomatic community an informed base for integration into international regimes for arms control and deterrence. Further, a visible response to impending threats will demonstrate resolve to both our potential competitors and our own military personnel.


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