SALT II Agreement - June 18, 1979

On June 18, 1979, the Strategic Arms Limitation Talks II (SALT II) agreement was signed by the United States and the Soviet Union in Vienna, Austria. This significant event was a continuation of efforts begun with the earlier SALT I talks, aimed at reducing the threat posed by nuclear weapons during the Cold War.

Background

The SALT negotiations were part of a broader attempt to contain the nuclear arms race between the two superpowers. The original SALT I agreement, signed in 1972, temporarily capped the number of strategic ballistic missile launchers and initiated the process of dialogue regarding nuclear arms limitations. However, since SALT I was only an interim agreement, further negotiations were necessary to establish a more comprehensive approach to arms control.

Key Provisions

• Limits on Delivery Vehicles: SALT II placed limits on the number of nuclear missile launchers and strategic bombers each side could possess. The agreement capped the total number of delivery vehicles (land-based intercontinental ballistic missiles, submarine-launched ballistic missiles, and heavy bombers) at 2,400 for each side, decreasing over time to 2,250.

• Specific Missile Constraints: The treaty specifically limited the number of MIRVed (Multiple Independently targetable Reentry Vehicles) ballistic missiles, which carry multiple nuclear warheads. This was a significant advancement from SALT I, which did not address MIRVs.

• Ban on New Types: It prohibited the development, testing, and deployment of new types of ICBMs and SLBMs (submarine-launched ballistic missiles).

Historical Significance

SALT II aimed to stabilize the strategic balance between the US and the Soviet Union and reduce the risk of nuclear confrontation. By setting limits on the number and types of nuclear weapons, the treaty was critical in curbing the burgeoning arms race, although it did face significant challenges.

Aftermath and Challenges

• Ratification Issues: The agreement faced a tough ratification process in the United States. Critics argued that it favored the Soviets and did not adequately address all forms of strategic armament.

• Geopolitical Strains: The treaty’s prospects were severely hindered by the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in December 1979, which led the United States to withdraw the treaty from Senate consideration.

• Implementation: Despite never being formally ratified, both nations largely adhered to the terms of the treaty during its intended period, indicating its influence on nuclear arms control.

SALT II stands as a notable effort in the Cold War history to contain nuclear arms proliferation, paving the way for subsequent negotiations, such as the START (Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty) agreements, which furthered the cause of arms control well into the late 20th century and beyond.