In the long run it shows that not only is the US prepared to act as a global cop, but a global marshal, American style. Securing the US against potential 'baddies' is the aim. Naturally, the enforced peace is basically meant to secure the peace and prosperity of the Americans and its allies and friends. Echoing the words of Ronald Reagan, President Bush made the point that the US needed new concepts of deterrence that rely on both offensive and defensive forces. Deterrence can no longer be based solely on the threat of nuclear retaliation.
Defences can strengthen deterrence by reducing the incentive for proliferation.
He made it clear that the US would not take a unilateral decision and would consult allies and friends. Three top functionaries of the US are visiting various countries in Europe, Asia, Australia and Canada. In Asia the US envoy is scheduled to visit India, South Korea and Japan. There is a temptation to link the present American proposal for BMD to Star Wars of the Reagan era. At that time the measure was solely aimed at countering the threat of Russian land based missiles.