Welcome to the website of the National Institute for Deterrence Studies (NIDS). We are a think tank devoted to the study of…well…deterrence. While much of our experience and research is focused on nuclear deterrence, we also look at conventional deterrence and deterrence across the land, sea, air, space, and cyber domains. Although we often think of deterrence as inextricably linked to nuclear weapons, it is a foundational effect American defense policy seeks to achieve in order to prevent the need for war.
The Department of Defense Dictionary of Military and Associated Terms defines deterrence as, “The prevention from action by fear of the consequences. Deterrence is a state of mind brought about by the existence of a credible threat of unacceptable counteraction.” In short, deterrence is an effect achieved in the mind of an adversary. For the United States, deterrence is preferable to waging war. We like it that way. Unfortunately, shaping an adversary’s perception of risk is not always easy and our decision-makers often get it wrong.
NIDS’ research tackles challenging topics as we seek ways to make deterrence more effective and conflict less frequent. With the majority of our research staff coming from long and distinguished military and civil service careers, we are focused on practical solutions to national security challenges.
The National Institute for Deterrence Studies brings a realist perspective to its research and an unapologetic belief that nuclear deterrence serves as the foundation of the nation’s security. In the months and years ahead, you can expect to see research in the form of short information briefs, editorials, longer research monographs, podcasts, and video lectures on a range of topics. We seek to inform and educate on both foundational issues and contemporary topics of the day.
We look forward to becoming one of your trusted sources of information on all things deterrence.