Which of the following scenarios would threaten the success of mutual nuclear deterrence?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Mutual nuclear deterrence works on the assumption that both parties involved are rational and would not want to risk mutually assured destruction. If the leader of a nuclear-armed state becomes suicidal or erratic, it would be a threat to the stability of mutual nuclear deterrence.

Answer: B 
 If a nuclear-armed state significantly increases the size of its nuclear arsenal, it could potentially upset the delicate balance of power between nuclear-armed states and threaten the success of mutual nuclear deterrence.

Answer: C 
 If the United States were to adopt a strategy of mobile missiles that are harder for other countries to target, it could reduce the effectiveness of a potential opponent's nuclear counterforce (i.e., their ability to target and destroy the opposing side's strategic nuclear weapons) and potentially weaken the assurance of mutual nuclear deterrence.

Answer: D 
 This option is less likely to threaten the success of mutual nuclear deterrence as long as the increase in silos is not accompanied by an increase in the number of nuclear warheads deployed or a change in doctrine that disrupts the current balance of power.

Which of the Following Scenarios Would Threaten the Success of Mutual