1.   An array of independent defense analysts say these developments blunt the argument in favor of the U.S. National Missile Defense program.

2.   Bennett, speaking in a conference call with defense analysts, declined to specify what that per share growth could be.

3.   But defense budget analysts believe that anything short of massive new funding could backfire and actually make readiness worse.

4.   But Lawrence J. Korb, defense analyst at the Brookings Institution, said it was difficult to detect such cost savings in terms of lower prices for weapons.

5.   But Loren Thompson, defense analyst at the Lexington Institute, a bipartisan Arlington, Va., think tank focused on defense and education, holds an opposite view.

6.   But several defense analysts said the new doctrine could herald a new era of confrontation between Russia and the West.

7.   But retired army officers and defense analysts have suggested a dose of caution.

8.   But they are not directly to blame for recent crashes of aircraft supporting the war in Afghanistan, defense analysts say.

9.   Company officials in the conference call with defense analysts also declined to identify specific programs where charges were taken, according to participants and Manor.

10.   Defense analysts, however, say McDonnell Douglas and the Air Force are politicking.