July 7, 2003

Boost-phase missile defense feasibility study to be released Tuesday, July 15, 2003

Washington, D.C. - The feasibility of boost-phase intercept strategies for national missile defense is the subject of an independent study by the American Physical Society to be released July 15, 2003.

Press conference - 10am, Tuesday, July 15, 2003

Location:
National Press Club, West Room
National Press Building
529 14th St. NW, 13th Floor
Washington, DC 20045

08 a.m. - Report available to journalists under embargo until 11am

10 a.m. - Press conference

11 a.m.  - Further interview opportunities:
National Press Building, 10th Floor, Suite 1050
Please book interviews in advance if possible

"This study was conducted for the American Physical Society by a group that included recognized experts on missile defense. The group assessed the feasibility of boost-phase intercept in terms of fundamental science and engineering requirements," said APS President Myriam Sarachik. "It is crucial that decisions about large-scale investments in weapons systems take into account their technical feasibility. The APS hopes this report will help in evaluating whether to build boost-phase defense systems."

The press conference panel will consist of the Study Group co-chairs, Frederick Lamb and Daniel Kleppner, Study Group member, Harvey Lynch, and APS Past President William Brinkman. Other study group members will be available for interview.

Reporters will have access to embargoed copies of the report from 8am, July 15, in the press conference room prior to a 10am press conference.

Study Group members will be available for individual interviews following the press conference in the American Physical Society offices, also in the National Press Building, 10th Floor, Suite 1050, from 11am. Journalists are encouraged to book interview times in advance.