23. Editorial Note
On June 30, 1977, President Jimmy Carter held a news conference which he began with a prepared statement: “During the last few months, I’ve done my best to assess all the factors involving production of the B–1 bomber. My decision is that we should not continue with deployment of the B–1, and I am directing that we discontinue plans for production of this weapons system.” Carter noted that the United States would continue the existing B–1 research and development program to learn more about the potential of the bomber and its systems, such as electronic countermeasures techniques, as well as assess the implications of the ongoing strategic arms limitations negotiations for future nuclear weapons delivering system investments. He continued: “In the meantime, we should begin deployment of cruise missiles using [Page 81] air-launched platforms, such as our B–52’s, modernized as necessary. Our triad concept of retaining three basic delivery systems will be continued with submarine-launched ballistic missiles, intercontinental ballistic missiles, and a bomber fleet, including cruise missiles as one of its armaments. We will continue thereby to have an effective and flexible strategic force whose capability is fully sufficient for our national defense.” For the full text of Carter’s remarks, see Public Papers: Carter, 1977, Book II, pages 1197–1208.