Final answer:
During the Cold War, the US practiced second-strike capability by maintaining the ability to launch a significant number of nuclear weapons in retaliation for a nuclear attack.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of the Cold War, the United States practiced second-strike capability by maintaining the ability to launch a significant number of nuclear weapons in retaliation for a nuclear attack. This strategy ensured that even if the Soviets launched a first strike, the US would still have the capacity to respond and deter further aggression.
The United States achieved second-strike capability by constructing an elaborate system that included maintaining a fleet of bombers armed with nuclear missiles, deploying fleets of submarines armed with nuclear missiles, and building top-secret nuclear silos hidden underground. These measures made it clear that the US had a formidable retaliatory force.
By maintaining second-strike capability, the United States aimed to deter the Soviets from launching a first strike by making it apparent that such an attack would not destroy America's ability to retaliate and inflict devastating damage in return.