orb@whuxl.UUCP (SEVENER) (02/22/85)
Switzer asked about the phased array radar being tested in Krasnoryk.
Here is the situation as I understand it: the ABM treaty forbids
testing of radar systems in an ABM mode. This would be a mode
which allows a radar system to be used in multiple tracking of warheads
to be shot down by ABM's. However the ABM treaty *does* allow the use
of radar for detection purposes and for detecting high-altitude bombers.
This is the Soviet's justification for the radar at Krasnoryk.
Even arms control advocates like Senator Dale Bumpers of Arkansas have
cited the Krasnoryk facility as a possible violation of the ABM treaty.
The question then is: what do we do about it?
The answer is to use the channel already established for this purpose,
the Standing Consultative Committee, to resolve this possible violation.
Unfortunately, while the Reagan administration has been very vocal in
publicizing supposed Soviet arms treaty violations (many of which were
already resolved by past Administrations of Nixon, Ford and Carter in
the Standing Consultative Committee), they have refused to bring these
violations before the SCC. Dale Bumpers and other Senators have been
putting pressure on the Reagan administration to bring this violation
to the SCC. (most of the accusations are spurious:this seems genuine)
The Standing Consultative Committee *has* been effective in the past.
Several years ago the Soviets were accused of deploying a radar facility in
an ABM mode. After months of haggling in the SCC they stopped.
The reason the Reagan administration has *not* used the SCC is that they
really do not wish to be held to past arms control agreements. By
accusing the Soviets of violating numerous treaties (many of which we
have never ratified) Reagan can justify his current arms buildup.
tim sevener whuxl!orb