Foreign Relations of the United States, 1981–1988, Volume XLIV, Part 1, National Security Policy, 1985–1988

67. Memorandum From the President’s Assistant for National Security Affairs (McFarlane) to President Reagan¹

Washington, October 5, 1985

MEETING WITH THE NATIONAL SECURITY PLANNING GROUP

I. PURPOSE

To review the briefing on Soviet strategic defenses provided to the Congress at the President’s request on October 3.

II. BACKGROUND

Several members of Congress who support the SDI program suggested that the Administration provide a classified briefing on the Soviet defensive program to the Congress for their information. This suggestion resulted in briefings to both the Senate and the House on October 3. These briefings were followed by the release of a joint, State/Defense unclassified publication on Soviet strategic defenses. The NSPG session permits a review of the classified, detailed presentation that was given to Congress. The meeting agenda is at Tab A.²

III. PARTICIPANTS

List of participants is at Tab B.³

IV. PRESS PLAN

Photo opportunity.

V. SEQUENCE OF EVENTS

I will introduce the subject. Bill Casey will then introduce the briefer, Dr. Lawrence Gershwin. The briefing is informational. After the briefing, we will have time for any questions that participants may have and some general discussion. No specific decisions are being requested.

1. Source: National Security Council, National Security Council Institutional Files, Box SR–110, NSPG 118 7 Oct 1985. No classification marking. Poindexter initialed the memorandum on McFarlane’s behalf. A copy was sent to Bush. Prepared by deGraffenreid and Linhard. A stamped notation indicates Reagan saw the memorandum. Reagan initialed the memorandum in the upper right-hand corner. The document notes that the meeting was scheduled for October 7 from 2 to 3 p.m. in the White House Situation Room.
2. Attached but not printed.
3. Attached but not printed.