Plans should be developed and then updated to reflect changes in the threat, technological advances, or national policy. Employment Considerations. . . . An adversary must believe that the US would respond with nuclear weapons if certain conditions are met. Carefully note that sole reason for nuclear weapons in the post-Cold War era is not deterrence alone. There are contingent plans for their use after a deterrence failure.
Safety is an absolute requirement when dealing with nuclear weapons.
Nuclear units should ensure that the unauthorized deliberate or inadvertent prearming, arming, launching, firing, or releasing of nuclear weapons are prevented. Nuclear weapons can not be subject to loss, theft, sabotage, damage or unauthorized use. In addition, nuclear units should ensure measures to provide the greatest possible deterrent against hostile acts. Since the above has been edited, it can no longer be regarded as a statement of the United States position. For that, see the full text.