Deterrence

More than just military posturing, deterrence is a strategy designed to prevent conflict by convincing potential adversaries that the cost of aggression outweighs any potential benefit.

In today’s complex security environment, it is ensured by maintaining credible and capable military forces, both conventional and nuclear. It requires a mix of forward presence, rapid reinforcement, and strategic signalling.

Source: https://www.nato.int/cps/en/natohq/topics_133127.htm#:~:text=Deterrence%20is%20a%20core%20element,and%20the%20rule%20of%20law