Anti-Ballistic Missile Treaty (ABM Treaty)

The Anti-Ballistic Missile (ABM) Treaty was a 1972 international agreement between the United States and the Soviet Union aimed at limiting the development and deployment of missile defense systems designed to intercept and destroy incoming nuclear missiles. The treaty sought to maintain strategic stability by preventing either side from gaining an overwhelming advantage in missile defense, which could lead to an arms race. It aimed to promote mutual assured destruction as a deterrent. The treaty was significant in Cold War diplomacy but was eventually abrogated by the U.S. in 2002, reflecting changing security priorities.