US agrees to notify other states before launching ballistic missiles, satellites

US agrees to announce missile launches

VIENNA — The U.S. has agreed to notify other countries before it launches ballistic missiles or satellites.

The American decision is contained in a confidential note made available to The Associated Press. It also was confirmed Thursday by three diplomats familiar with the issue.

The measure is less far-reaching than the treaty signed in March by the U.S. and Russian presidents that outlines cuts in both nations’ massive nuclear arsenals. But it is nonetheless significant in reflecting Washington’s determination to build on the success of that agreement.