Chemical Warheads

File: 950901_043pgv_90d.txt
Page: 90d
Total Pages: 1
Chemical Warheads

Filename:043pgv.90d
Subject: Chemical Warheads

[   (b)(2)   ]
[   (b)(2)   ]

Response to question 5A:

Q.       As ordnance on an inbound tactical ballistic missile 
(TBM) is unknown, what would the effectiveness be of a chemical 
TBM if allowed to strike the Persian Gulf (vice intercepting it 
with Patriot and possibly dispersing, chemicals), over a wide 
area?

A.      The chemical in the warhead would be diluted and 
hydrolysed by impacting the water.  The water is an excellent 
diluent and decontamination agent.  Most, if not all, of the toxic 
effect of the chemical in the warhead would be lost by impact in 
the water.  The SCUD-type weapons in the Iraqi inventory would 
likely detonate underwater due to the non-separation of-the 
warhead from the missile body.

Q.       Given present Patriot locations and mission to defend 
critical ports, would it be `better to allow a SCUD (TBM) to 
strike water or not?

A. (U)  Water impact is preferable.