As the P5+1 prepares to sit down for talks with on Iran on its nuclear program this weekend, our own Laicie Olson argues in an op-ed published today in the Hill that the upcoming meeting is a vital first step in what will likely be a long-term effort to ensure that Iran’s nuclear program is purely for civilian purposes…
Shipboard Sensors for European Missile Defense Far From Up to Snuff
Earlier this year we profiled the Defense Science Board’s (DSB) September 2011 report titled “Science and Technology Issues of Early Intercept Ballistic Missile Defense Feasibility.” We noted at the time that the report is about a lot more than early intercept; it highlighted a number of shortcomings of the European Phased Adaptive Approach (EPAA), some of which also plague the Ground Based Midcourse Defense system. The report was especially startling given that such information doesn’t often make it beyond the classification wall.
“The case for the CTBT: Stronger than ever”
In my April Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists column, I examine the recently released National Academy of Sciences report on the technical and security issues related to the CTBT.
S.Korean Intelligence: N. Korea Preparing Nuclear Test
As expected, North Korea is apparently preparing for its third nuclear test, according to South Korean intelligence officials. This is in line with typical North Korean behavior — in the past, it has tested missiles first followed by a nuclear test witnessed in 2006 and 2009.
North Korea’s Planned Rocket Launch Update
South Korea’s YTN reports North Korea may launch its Kwangmyeongseong-3 rocket on April 14th, weather permitting. The North is expected to hold a parliamentary session on April 13th to anoint Kim Jong-un and celebrate its founder Kim Il-sung’s 100th birthday on April 15th. YTN reports, the North is allowing international media to arrive on April 12th.
