The modernization of nuclear weapon systems relies on complex digital infrastructure, making the system vulnerable to cyberattacks that could undermine strategic deterrence and trigger a crisis. Strategic stability is the condition in which no state has an incentive to launch an attack first, and is based on the uncompromised ability to respond as well as on the nonexistence of inaccurate estimates.[1] A cyberattack on nuclear infrastructure, whether involving a reactor system or a Nuclear Command Control and Communication system (NC3), has the potential to erode the foundations of assured retaliation by compromising the operational integrity of second-strike forces and thereby undermining strategic stability.
Essentially, nuclear cyber resilience and the ability to recover from cyberattacks can be described as an underestimated yet important pillar of strategic stability. Any circumstance that can disrupt the functioning of the organization, be it in terms of mission, functions, image, and reputation of the organization through an information system by use of unauthorized access, destruction, disclosure, information modification, or combination of use of information system to deny the service of the system, is considered as Cyber threats.[2] Under traditional NC3, States trust the command, control, and early warning systems in all circumstances; however, digitalization could erode trust due to cyber threats. The uncertainty about the true capabilities of a potential adversary is caused by the fact that such attacks, being complex and even elusive, may provide significant uncertainty to the enemy.
