Which of the following are requirements for the success of mutual nuclear deterrence?Correct Answer(s)second-strike capabilityverification of an attack's originfirst-strike capabilityrational leadersIncorrect Answer(s)

The requirements for the success of mutual nuclear deterrence include:

1. Second-Strike Capability: This refers to the ability of a country to respond to a nuclear attack with powerful nuclear retaliation against the attacker. Even if the country's initial nuclear capability is wiped out in a first strike, it must have enough nuclear weapons hidden or mobile (like on submarines) to carry out a devastating second strike.

2. Verification of an Attack's Origin: It is crucial to accurately identify the origin of a nuclear attack. Misattribution could lead to retaliation against an innocent country, escalating the conflict unnecessarily.

3. Rational Leaders: Mutual nuclear deterrence relies on the assumption that leaders are rational and do not want to engage in a nuclear war that could lead to mutual destruction. Therefore, the threat of retaliation should deter a rational leader from launching a nuclear attack in the first place.

The incorrect answer is:

1. First-Strike Capability: While having a first-strike capability can be part of a country's nuclear strategy, it is not a requirement for mutual nuclear deterrence. In fact, the goal of deterrence is to prevent any nuclear strike from occurring, not to strike first.