MER - Space Arms Race Truly Begins

<body bgcolor="#FFFFFF"> AIR FORCE SEEKS BUSH'S APPROVAL FOR SPACE WEAPONS PROGRAMS: The Air Force, saying it must secure space to protect the nation from attack, is seeking President Bush's approval of a national-security directive that could move the United States closer to fielding offensive and defensive space weapons, according to White House and Air Force officials. The proposed change would be a substantial shift in American policy. It would almost certainly be opposed by many American allies and potential enemies, who have said it may create an arms race in space. LBN <b on></b> </body>