The Proliferation Security Initiative: What Comes Next?

Abstract : This Air University research paper is an examination of the Proliferation Security Initiative. Through extensive research and review of academic journals, governmental sources, and press reporting, combined with interviews of relevant personnel in the Departments of Defense and State, the Proliferation Security Initiative is chronicled from its inception in early 2002 through the latest multinational exercises. Special attention is given to the guidelines governing participation in PSI and the key issues - legal authorities and intelligence sharing - relevant to PSI operations. PSI's real-world success in the interdiction of BBC China and the subsequent decision by Libya to surrender its WMD program is covered as well. Most importantly for an Air Force audience, the progression of PSI to the arena of air interdiction is described along with a brief description of how an air interdiction might play out and what complications it might bring. Finally, PSI is recognized as a small part in the overall US effort to counter WMD but an important part in rebuilding bilateral and multinational relationships.