Circumstances Surrounding the Government's Approval of Nuclear-Related Exports to Iran

Certain laser equipment and technology have the potential to enrich uranium. Slightly enriched uranium is used for nuclear reactor fuel; however, when highly enriched, the same uranium takes on qualities that make it suitable for use as a nuclear explosive. Consequently, U.S. laws place strict controls over the export of any equipment or technology useful in either the development of a uranium enrichment capability or the actual enrichment of uranium. In 1978, four lasers and related equipment were exported to Iran from the United States. An evaluation was made of the circumstances and nuclear proliferation implications of that transaction.