chain of effects leading to the very core of this design. There is no truth in the assertion that the strategic defence initiative would not involve nuclear weapons. This is revealed even by the fact that along with the efforts to develop a wide-scale anti-ballistic missile defence , a total modernization of the offensive arsenal is proceeding apace. In essence, the strategic defence initiative has been designed as a complement to the strategic offensive potential. Its objective is to ensure a first-strike capability without fear of retaliation. In other words, the doctrine of mutual assured destruction is being replaced by the doctrine of assured destruction of the potential adversary. In the final analysis, the strategic defence initiative programme is leading to the creation of an entirely new class of offensive armaments, space strike weapons, which would increase the threat of a nuclear conflict. It is evident even now that the planned non-nuclear strikes against nuclear targets are tantamount to contemplation of a nuclear attack. Another question arises here, that of the responsibility of non-nuclear-weapon states which participate in the development of weapons which could unleash a nuclear war. ALW/cw A/C.l/40/PV.ll 72 (Mr. Kostov, Bulgaria) There is only one conclusion to be drawn. The strategic defence initiative has nothing to do with the goals of curtailing and reducing nuclear arsenals. Its implementation would inevitably initiate a new, even more dangerous round of the nuclear arms race and would make it irreversible . The strategic defence initiative poses a threat to everything positive which was achieved during the 70's in the field of security with the concerted efforts of the USSR and the United States of America. This concerns, first and foremost, SALT-2. It is perfectly clear that renunciation of the limits on strategic arms is incompatible with professed readiness for their reduction. 
**Analysis**
The text appears to be a discussion about a military program, specifically the Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI), and its potential implications on international security and the nuclear arms race. The language used is technical and focused on the strategic and military aspects of the program, rather than economic, environmental, or social issues.

**Category**
Science and technology, International relations