News


From: Allen Thomson (thomsona@flash.net)
Subject: Re: Satellite vulnerability concerns in CORONA days 
Newsgroups: sci.space.policy, sci.space.history
Date: 2003-11-18 11:25:42 PST 

                                                   30 April 1962



MEMORANDUM FOR: Deputy Director (Research)

SUBJECT       : Soviet Anti-ICBM and Anti-Satellite
                Capability


     1. On 30 April the DCI mentioned that he was somewhat con-
cerned by a statement made by Secretary McNamara to the President
to the effect that the Nike-Zeus would be capable in one year's time
of knocking down ICBMs and satellites.  The DCI is concerned as to
whether we are paying adequate attention to the Soviet capability
for countermeasures, although he is skeptical as to the degree of
advance in the anti-missile missile field.  He would like to have you
and Dr. Charyk review the situation, perhaps preparing a study on it.

     2. In connection with the degree of our offensive capability,
the DCI suggests more secrecy on launchings, varying orbits, and
perhaps equipping the vehicle for changing the orbit upon command.

     3. With reference to his request for a discussion on Samos,
you may wish to discuss this matter with him at the same time.




                             (signed) Lyman B. Kirkpatrick
                  
                            Lyman B. Kirkpatrick
                             Executive Director