11.   Chirac contends the tests on Mururoa and Fantagaufa atolls are needed to develop computer simulation and test a new warhead.

12.   France has come under fierce international criticism for its decision to resume underground testing in the South Pacific of its nuclear arsenal, including a powerful new warhead.

13.   France itself admits that some of the tests are to try out a new warhead.

14.   French President Jacques Chirac contends the blasts are needed to test a new warhead and develop technology that will let France simulate future tests by computer.

15.   French President Jacques Chirac contends up to eight more blasts are needed to test a new warhead and develop technology that will let France simulate future tests by computer.

16.   President Jacques Chirac plans a total of seven or eight nuclear tests to check the new warhead and develop computer simulation that would make further tests unnecessary.

17.   Such a move would require Congress to lift a ban on designing new nuclear warheads.

18.   The United States does not have facilities to make new warheads, but Russia is now making new nuclear weapons, Feith said.

19.   Up to seven more tests are planned before the end of May in an effort to develop computer simulation and test a new warhead.

20.   Up to seven more tests are planned before the end of May in an effort to develop simulation and test a new warhead.