Strategic nuclear deterrence

Strategic nuclear deterrence is the idea that having powerful nuclear weapons serves as a warning to potential adversaries. The presence of these weapons discourages other countries from attacking or escalating conflicts, because they fear devastating retaliation. It relies on the concept of mutually assured destruction—both sides know that any nuclear attack would lead to unacceptable retaliation, making conflict too risky. Essentially, nuclear deterrence aims to maintain peace by preventing war through the threat of overwhelming nuclear response, encouraging careful diplomacy and stability between countries with nuclear capabilities.