Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of deterrence?

Deterrence is a strategy aimed at preventing an adversary from taking an undesirable action by instilling a fear of consequences. The key characteristics of deterrence include demonstrating resolve, flexibility in military responses, and maintaining a credible threat. Signaling resolve involves communicating to potential aggressors that a state is prepared to respond decisively if provoked. Having flexible military options allows a state to tailor its response to different scenarios, thereby enhancing its deterrent posture. Maintaining a credible threat ensures that potential adversaries believe that the consequences of their actions would be significant enough to dissuade them from engaging in aggressive behavior.

Involvement in peacekeeping missions, however, does not inherently align with the principles of deterrence. While peacekeeping can be part of broader security strategies aimed at stability and conflict resolution, it typically focuses on maintaining order and facilitating negotiations rather than deterring aggression through threat or military readiness. Thus, while peacekeeping may contribute to overall security, it does not constitute a characteristic of deterrence itself.