The phrase "nuclear capability" refers to a country's ability to produce nuclear weapons. Its correct spelling may be difficult to remember due to the pronunciation of the word "nuclear". The correct pronunciation is [ˈnjuːkliə(r)], with the stress on the first syllable. This differs from how some people may pronounce it, with the emphasis on the second syllable [n(j)uːˈkliːə(r)]. It is important to use the correct spelling when discussing sensitive topics such as nuclear armament.
Nuclear capability refers to the possession, development, and use of nuclear weapons or nuclear technology by a country or entity. It represents the ability and readiness to deploy, maintain, and deliver nuclear weapons, as well as the infrastructure and expertise required to produce and sustain them. Typically, nuclear capability implies that a state has acquired the necessary knowledge, resources, technology, and facilities to build, maintain, and employ nuclear weapons effectively.
This term is particularly associated with states that have successfully developed atomic bombs or more advanced nuclear devices, such as thermonuclear weapons. However, nuclear capability does not solely refer to possessing actual weapons but also includes countries that have gained the capability to build them but have chosen to remain non-nuclear by adhering to non-proliferation treaties.
The development and possession of nuclear capability carry significant political, diplomatic, and military implications. It often bestows a unique level of global influence and security, as well as factors into a country's overall military doctrine and geopolitical strategy. Nations with nuclear capability may seek to deter potential adversaries from aggression or secure their own national defense. The concept of nuclear capability also encompasses the capacity to defend against nuclear attacks using robust ballistic missile defenses.
The word "nuclear" originates from the Latin word "nucleus", meaning "kernel" or "central part". In the context of nuclear capability, "nuclear" refers to the nucleus or central part of an atom. The word "capability" derives from the Latin word "capabilis", which means "able to take" or "able to hold". Therefore, the term "nuclear capability" refers to the ability or capacity to possess or utilize nuclear weapons or technologies.