8.4

Question 1

When was SDI announced?

Answer 1

AKA Star Wars program

23^rd March 1983

Question 2

What was SDI?

Answer 2

Strategic Defense Initiative

A plan for a ground and space based, laser armed anti-ballistic missile system taht would shield against missiles launched at the US and their allies.

Question 3

Soviet Response to SDI:

Answer 3

• USSR was already experiencing economic problems and renewed arms spending could cripple it
• The USSR was also behind the USA in computer technology:
  
  • Soviet leaders were highly suspicious of computer tech as they thought it could be used to undermind the Communist Party