International Cooperation
By Matt Martin
The United States has been pursuing the support of a number of allies in its missile defense efforts. In addition to countries that have actual or potential contracts at stake for missile defense components, such as Germany, Italy, and Israel, other countries are being courted to assist with US missile defense systems or for public political support.
The United Kingdom has declared that it will allow the upgrading of radars at Fylingdales, which will enable coverage of much of the Middle East. A similar radar upgrade at Thule in Greenland for the same purpose has been more contentious, with the semi-autonomous home rule government on Greenland raising questions, while the ruling Danish government leans toward approval of the US request. A decision is expected sometime this summer.
Canada has been approached to show their public support for US missile defense plans, with the possibility of being integrated into the system at some future date. This week, however, the Canadian government put off a decision, pending further discussions and consultations among parliamentarians. Prime Minister Chretien and a majority of his cabinet are said to favor a show of support.