What do nations use to signal their deterrence capabilities?

Nations signal their deterrence capabilities primarily through military demonstrations and exercises. This method visibly showcases a country’s military strength, readiness, and technological advancements, effectively communicating its willingness and ability to defend its interests. Military demonstrations can take various forms, including troop movements, naval exercises, missile tests, and other displays of force. These actions serve multiple purposes, such as reassuring allies, discouraging potential adversaries, and reinforcing the nation’s position on the global stage.

While diplomatic channels are important for communication and negotiation, they do not serve as a direct demonstration of military capability. Economic sanctions are tools for coercion rather than explicit signals of deterrence. Global summits can foster dialogue and cooperation but they typically do not provide a direct demonstration of a nation's military readiness or deterrence posture.