What principle states that superpower strategic nuclear forces can survive a nuclear attack to retaliate?

The principle that states superpower strategic nuclear forces can survive a nuclear attack to retaliate is known as Mutually Assured Destruction (MAD). This doctrine emerged during the Cold War and is based on the idea that both sides in a conflict possess enough nuclear weapons to destroy each other completely. As a result, the threat of mutual annihilation serves as a deterrent against the first use of nuclear weapons.

In this context, MAD underscores the importance of ensuring that strategic nuclear capabilities can withstand an initial nuclear strike, allowing for a credible second-strike response. This principle reinforces the stability of nuclear deterrence since both parties are aware that launching an attack would lead to devastating consequences for themselves.

While Deterrence Theory broadly encompasses strategies aimed at preventing aggression through the fear of retaliation, it is specifically the concept of Mutually Assured Destruction that encapsulates the notion of survivability and assured retaliation in the nuclear context. Preemptive Strike Policy refers to the strategy of striking first against an imminent threat rather than relying on the deterrent effect of mutual destruction. Nuclear Non-Proliferation focuses on preventing the spread of nuclear weapons and does not address the retaliatory capabilities of existing nuclear forces.