https://www.twz.com/nuclear/golden-dome-missile-shield-key-to-ensuring-nuclear-second-strike-capability-u-s-admiral

JOSEPH TREVITHICK

PUBLISHED NOV 6, 2025 

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In deterrence parlance, a second-strike capability refers to a country’s credible ability to respond in kind to hostile nuclear attacks. This is considered essential to dissuading opponents from thinking they might be able to secure victory through even a massive opening salvo.

Helping to ensure America’s second-strike nuclear deterrent capability, as well as aiding in the defense specifically against enemy “countervalue” attacks, has been central to the plan for Golden Dome, which was originally called Iron Dome, since it was first announced in January. Countervalue nuclear strikes are ones expressly aimed at population centers, as opposed to counterforce strikes directed at military targets.

U.S. Navy Vice Adm. Richard Correll testifies at his confirmation hearing to become the next head of US Strategic Command on October 30, 2025. 

Office of the Secretary of War Petty Officer 1st Class Eric Brann

USAF