"First strike" refers to a military strategy where one nation launches an initial attack against another, aiming to incapacitate or destroy its opponent's ability to respond effectively. This tactic is often associated with nuclear warfare, where a country may seek to eliminate the threat of retaliation by striking first. The concept of first strike is closely linked to the idea of deterrence, where nations maintain a strong military presence to discourage potential attacks. Countries like the United States and Russia have developed policies regarding first strike capabilities, which can influence global security dynamics and international relations.