Competitive Arms Control: Nixon, Kissinger, and SALT, 1969-1972

During the Nixon administration, Richard Nixon, National Security Advisor Henry Kissinger, and Secretary of Defense Melvin Laird shaped the Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT) to channel nuclear competition toward areas of American advantage, allowing the US to sustain its global power, contain communism, and prevail in the Cold War.

Format: Hardback
Length: 312 pages
Publication date: 13 September 2022
Publisher: Yale University Press

The Nixon administration's Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT) played a pivotal role in the Cold War's strategic nuclear dynamics. President Richard Nixon, driven by a fierce desire to secure a strategic nuclear advantage over the Soviet Union, emerged as one of the most effective arms controllers of the era. By delving into newly opened Cold War archives, John D. Maurer sheds light on a central objective of American leaders in the arms control negotiations: to redirect nuclear competition toward areas of American advantage rather than solely focusing on international cooperation. While previous accounts of SALT have emphasized American cooperative motives, Maurer highlights the significant influence of Nixon, National Security Advisor Henry Kissinger, and Secretary of Defense Melvin Laird in shaping the negotiations. These leaders skillfully balanced their own competitive interests with proponents of cooperation, while presenting a coherent rationale to Congress.

Within the arms control agreements negotiated during the Nixon administration, American leaders had the intention to continue deploying new weapons. However, the restrictions imposed by these agreements allowed the United States to maintain its global power, contain communism, and ultimately emerge victorious in the Cold War. SALT I, signed in 1969, established limits on intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) and intermediate-range nuclear missiles (IRBMs). SALT II, signed in 1972, further reduced these limits and introduced limits on strategic nuclear warheads. These agreements not only helped to reduce the risk of nuclear conflict but also facilitated arms control negotiations between the United States and the Soviet Union in subsequent decades.

The Nixon administration's approach to arms control was characterized by a strategic vision that aimed to leverage American technological and economic advantages. By focusing on areas of American strength, such as missile defense and space exploration, the administration sought to create a favorable balance of power in the nuclear realm. This approach was in contrast to the previous policy of containment, which relied heavily on military deterrence and the deployment of nuclear weapons.

The success of SALT during the Nixon administration can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, the administration's willingness to engage in direct negotiations with the Soviet Union was a significant milestone in the Cold War's history. This willingness to compromise and find common ground helped to build trust and reduce tensions between the two superpowers. Secondly, the administration's ability to navigate complex political and diplomatic challenges was crucial in securing congressional support for arms control agreements. Thirdly, the administration's commitment to arms control was driven by a broader strategic vision that aimed to promote stability and security in the global arena.

In conclusion, the Nixon administration's Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT) played a pivotal role in the Cold War's strategic nuclear dynamics. President Richard Nixon's determination to secure a strategic nuclear advantage led him to become one of the most effective arms controllers of the era. By redirecting nuclear competition toward areas of American advantage and engaging in direct negotiations with the Soviet Union, the administration was able to reduce the risk of nuclear conflict and promote stability in the global arena. The success of SALT during the Nixon administration can be attributed to a combination of political skill, strategic vision, and a commitment to arms control.

Weight: 542g
Dimension: 164 x 242 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780300247558