Proliferation of Chemical Weapons and Ballistic Missiles: Risks to NATOS Southern Region
Abstract
Proliferation of chemical weapons and ballistic missiles in the Middle East and North Africa represents a growing risk to NATOs Southern Region. Several countries in the region possess chemical weapons and other are seeking the capability to develop and employ them. Likewise, ballistic missile trends and emerging capabilities in the region give reason for concern since the not- too-distant future may see missiles tipped with chemical warheads. The region faces explosive population growth, economic difficulties, and political turmoil. When you add the Arab/Israeli animosities and the spread of Islamic fundamentalism to this instability, the region becomes volatile. Thus, the heightened concern over the proliferation of weapons use and negotiations and a discussion of the region's volatility, examines the proliferation of chemical weapons use and negotiations and a discussion of the region's volatility, examines the proliferation of chemical weapons and ballistic missiles in the Middle East and North Africa. The resulting future risks to NATOs Southern Region are discussed with the focus on chemical defense preparedness. Conclusions address the continued proliferation and the risks to NATOs Southern Region. Some brief thoughts for the way ahead are offered on security, confidence-building, and cooperation in the region, as well as, on strengthening the chemical defense posture of the Southern Region.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1991
- Accession Number
- ADA238976
Entities
People
- James R. King
Organizations
- United States Army War College