One intriguing fact is the concept of mutually assured destruction (MAD), a doctrine based on the idea that a nuclear attack by one state would inevitably result in retaliation and the destruction of both, thus deterring either side from initiating such an attack.
The book progresses through chapters that cover fundamental concepts like minimum and extended deterrence, the evolution of ICBMs and SLBMs, and the challenges of nuclear proliferation. It argues that effective nuclear deterrence hinges not only on possessing these weapons but also on the credibility of their threatened use and careful management of escalation risks.
What sets this book apart is its examination of nuclear strategy from military, technological, political, and diplomatic perspectives, challenging conventional wisdom by presenting it as a constantly evolving adaptation to changing circumstances. Supported by extensive research, Nuclear Strategies connects military history, political science, and international relations, offering a holistic understanding of this critical subject.