Containing Missile Proliferation: Strategic Technology, Security Regimes, and International Cooperation in Arms Control

Because the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) focuses exclusively on limiting technology transfer, it has had predictably mixed results in slowing missile proliferation among states, argues Mistry (Asian studies, U. of Cincinnati). He examines the MTCR's record, suggesting that security pressures from regional systems and political-economic pressures from the global system are two major factors affecting national missile decisions that need to be understood. He reviews a number of ways that missile control may be strengthened, although moves towards disarmament by the powerful is not among the methods considered. Annotation ©2003 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR

The proliferation of ballistic missiles that can deliver weapons of mass destruction halfway across the world is a matter of growing urgency and concern, as is the fate of agreements limiting the development of such deadly weapons. The Bush administrations scrapping of the ABM Treaty and pursuit of a huge National Missile Defense initiative are dramatic evidence of this concern. Yet there remains much uncertainty about the viability of missile defense. If defenses fall short, strong security regimes will be necessary to contain missile proliferation.

Since 1987, more than thirty states have agreed to restrict their transfer of missiles and related technologies under the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR). During the MTCRs first decade, several regional powers were thwarted from advancing their missile ambitions. Subsequently, however, states such as North Korea, Iran, Pakistan, India, and Israel have tested medium-range missiles and others have expanded their missile arsenals.

Dinshaw Mistry critically examines the successes and limitations of the MTCR, and suggests five practical ways to strengthen the regime. The authors exhaustive research offers new and detailed insights on the technology and politics of missile programs in Iran, Iraq, North Korea, Pakistan, India, Israel, Egypt, South Korea, Taiwan, and other countries. Mistry also shows how international cooperation, security regimes, and U.S. foreign policies of engagement and containment with these states can halt their missile programs.

Mistrys book is the first comprehensive study of the MTCR and of international efforts to contain missile proliferation. Policymakers, scholars, and the general reader will find this book a valuable contribution to the subjects of arms control, ballistic missile proliferation, multilateral cooperation, and international security regimes.

Dinshaw Mistry is assistant professor and director of Asian studies at the University of Cincinnati. He has written extensively on technology and politics, regional security, and international cooperation in 'The New York Times', 'Security Studies', 'Contemporary Security Policy', 'Asian Survey', 'Pacific Affairs', and other publications.