Ever since 1983, when U.S. President Ronald Reagan broached the project, the idea of a missile defense program that would protect the United States from nuclear attack has burned bright in the breasts of many Americans. The image of a nation protected from threat and insulated from nuclear blackmail has an irresistible appeal: The project's feasibility has always been another matter. Nonetheless, the U.S. is virtually committed to develop a missile defense system, no matter the consequences. Unfortunately, those consequences could be severe and might even diminish U.S. security and that of its allies.

The missile threat is real. The Pentagon estimates that more than 20 nations have missiles of one form or another and about 25 governments possess or are trying to develop weapons of mass destruction. Reportedly, more than 75 nations have cruise missiles.

Last week, the U.S. conducted another test of its interceptor system, the second of three that are scheduled before President Bill Clinton decides this summer whether to go ahead with initial construction of a national missile defense. The test failed, which makes two misses in a row. The first test, held in October, was pronounced a success, but the Pentagon has since revealed technical problems that suggest the original evaluation was generous.