What strategy primarily focuses on preventing aggression before it occurs?

The strategy that primarily focuses on preventing aggression before it occurs is deterrence. This concept is rooted in the idea of preventing hostile actions by influencing an adversary's decision-making. Deterrence works by instilling doubt in the aggressor regarding the benefits of an attack and highlighting the potential consequences that would follow, such as military retaliation or other severe repercussions.

Often associated with nuclear strategy during the Cold War, deterrence relies on maintaining a credible threat that dissuades enemies from taking aggressive actions. It encompasses both direct deterrence, aimed at stopping aggression against one's own forces, and extended deterrence, which protects allies from potential aggression.

This strategy is distinct from options that imply a reactive or confrontational approach, such as active defense, which involves protecting against attacks once they occur, or annihilation approaches which advocate for total destruction of the opponent's military capability. By focusing on preventing conflict through a show of strength or a credible threat of retaliation, deterrence remains a pivotal concept in military strategy and international relations.