Which countries were original members of the Missile Technology Control Regime?

The Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) was established in 1987 as a multilateral export control regime aimed at preventing the proliferation of missiles and missile technology capable of carrying a payload of at least 500 kg over a distance of 300 km. The original members were key players in Western defense and technology policies, with the United States leading the initiative.

The inclusion of the United Kingdom, Germany, and Italy alongside the United States reflects the collective recognition of these nations regarding the risks posed by missile technology proliferation and their commitment to effective control measures. Each of these countries played a significant role in the development and regulation of missile technologies, reinforcing the importance of this regime during the Cold War and beyond.

In contrast, the other options consist of countries that either joined the regime later or did not participate as founding members, which highlights the distinct geopolitical alignment and goals of the MTCR during its inception.