What is the main intention of deterrence in military strategy?

Deterrence in military strategy primarily aims to prevent aggression by intimidating potential adversaries. This concept is based on the idea that the threat of significant retaliation, whether it be through military action or other means, can dissuade opponents from taking hostile actions. The effectiveness of deterrence lies in convincing adversaries that the costs of aggression will outweigh any potential gains, thus maintaining stability and preventing conflict.

Humanitarian aid, securing navigation routes, and projecting military power are all important aspects of military operations, but they do not encapsulate the primary goal of deterrence. These actions may play a role in broader military strategy, but they do not focus on the psychological aspect of preventing conflict through the threat of force, which is at the heart of deterrence.