Second-strike capability
A) is the capacity to absorb attacks and inflict unacceptable damage on the opponent.
B) can create a stable situation of mutual assured destruction.
C) was achieved by the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War.
D) All of the above are true.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A) Second-strike capability refers to a country's ability to absorb a nuclear attack and retaliate with its own devastating counterattack, leading to mutual destruction. This creates a deterrent effect and prevents any country from launching a first strike.
B) The concept of mutual assured destruction (MAD) is based on the idea that if both sides possess second-strike capability, neither will launch a first strike for fear of the consequences. This creates a stable situation of deterrence and reduces the likelihood of nuclear war.
C) During the Cold War, both the United States and the Soviet Union achieved second-strike capability, which contributed to the stability of the deterrence relationship between the two superpowers.

Second-Strike Capability