Dead hand mechanism

Definition

A retaliatory system configured to launch automatically if a nation is destroyed, ensuring mutually assured destruction.

Example Usage

During the Cold War, the Soviet Union maintained a dead hand mechanism as a deterrent against nuclear first strikes.

Origin

Translation of Russian 'мёртвая рука' system, developed during the Cold War

Fun Fact

Russia's actual Dead Hand system (Perimeter) was so secretive its existence wasn't widely known until after the Cold War ended.

Source: Military and defense policy terminology

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