Mutually assured destruction rests on each side being able to inflict devastating harm on the other. Conventional deterrence can be graduated instead. A patrol vessel signals presence, a frigate or destroyer signals greater commitment, and a carrier group raises the stakes again. Troops deployed ashore can create a tripwire because any attack would put them at risk. The amount of force committed communicates willingness to fight before hostilities begin.
Chapter · 15:57-18:36
From mutual destruction to graduated naval signals
Patrol vessels, larger warships, and troops illustrate escalating signals short of war.