Kent Conrad: “this is the amendment we discussed earlier that says the Air Force plan for national missile defense is an important…”

“this is the amendment we discussed earlier that says the Air Force plan for national missile defense is an important option and is worthy of serious consideration, and that the Secretary of Defense should give the Air Force national missile defense proposal full consideration. It further calls on the Secretary of Defense to produce a report within 120 days on the following matters in relation to the Air Force national missile defense proposal: First, the cost and operational effectiveness of a system that could be developed pursuant to the Air Force plan; Second, the arms control implications of such a system; Third, the growth potential to meet future threats; And finally, fourth, the Secretary's recommendation for improvements to the Air Force's plan. I do not think too much more needs to be said. I outlined at some length earlier what I think are the great strengths of the Air Force plan: First, it is treaty compliant; second, it is affordable; third, it uses existing technology. I ask for support from my colleagues for this amendment and ask for its consideration at this point.”