Interoperability In Multi-Layered Active Defense:The Need For Commonality And Robustness Between Active Defense Weapon Systems

Abstract : Since World War II nations have increasingly relied on ballistic missiles. The use of ballistic weapons allows the attacker to save resources and reduce the use of air power. These weapon systems are cheap, deadly and likely to be used by poorer countries. Furthermore, ballistic missiles are constantly being improved. In World War II the Germans bombed the United Kingdom with thousands of ballistic missiles, yet this threat did not change the face of the war nor tip the balance in favor of Germany. However, over the years by combining nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles, the influence of ballistic weapons has become much more threatening and strategic. The armament of ballistic weapons has become a worldwide proliferation phenomenon. During the last three decades the Arab countries, especially those in the Middle East, have begun to obtain ballistic weapons at an increasing rate. In 1998, a study published by Congressional Committees, stated that approximately 25-30 countries were seeking to develop non-conventional ballistic weapons. In 2006, more than one hundred ballistic missiles were launched around the world as part of ballistic missile firing tests. The increase of ballistic missiles and rocket tests rises each year by 10 percent. Today, all the countries which have a nuclear capability also have the ability to launch medium- and long-range ballistic missiles. In 2004, a report by the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) declared that over 40 countries have the capacity to produce nuclear weapons. As of 2009, the total ballistic missiles in the world not including the manufacturing countries such as the United States, Soviet Union and China stood at over 5,900 missiles. For example, in the Middle East, Syria has hundreds of ballistic missiles, especially large surface-to-surface missiles which are now mainly used against rebel forces.