Much debate ensued over the creation of the Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI), also known as the "Star Wars" project. The project aimed to develop technology that could intercept nuclear projectiles before they reached their targets by employing laser-based satellite weaponry. Although the project never came close to fruition, it did succeed in prompting the Soviets to develop a counteractive weapons system, which further increased the pressure on its economy. (John H. Chafee Papers: Sep 1986)