Since the end of the Cold War, the need for nuclear risk reduction has never been so great but the tools for nuclear risk reduction have never been so lacking. In particular, existing arms control agreements and models do not incorporate emerging technologies, such as hypersonic glide vehicles, cyber, and space-based capabilities. These technologies will increasingly influence strategic stability by, for example, threatening nuclear command and control or undermining stealth technology.
For arms control and/or confidence-building measures to have a future as a tool for strengthening strategic stability, the United States and Russia must recommit to cooperative efforts to manage emerging technologies. But in addition to the need for political will, there is also a need for evolution in arms control and other forms of negotiation and cooperation. Are there historical models for arms control or cooperation around emerging technology? Do emerging technologies present unique challenges for arms control and negotiations? And what new models might promote strategic stability?