Why Russia opposes a NATO missile defence in Europe : a survey of common explanations

During the past decade plans to establish a US-led NATO missile defence system in Europe has been one of the most contested issues in the relationship between Russia and NATO. This report provides a survey of the most common explanations for Russia‟s fierce opposition to NATO‟s missile defence plans. Officially Russia claims that the system may become able to destroy intercontinental ballistic missiles launched from Russian territory, thereby disturbing the mutual nuclear deterrence between Russia and the United States which is still seen as fundamental to Russian security. Alternative interpretations points to a preoccupation with the concept of depth in Russia‟s strategic culture due to historical experiences and more ulterior motives such as need for a bargain chip in order to gain concessions from NATO in other policy arenas; to justify increases in Russian defence spending; to consolidate power behind the Putin regime; or perceptions and preferences among the Russian leadership.