The President alone decides when to use a nuclear weapon

The president continues to have exclusive power to order the use of nuclear weapons as commander in chief of the American armed forces. Although military doctrine advises against it, the president is not required to speak with top commanders before using nuclear weapons. It is also one of the things you might want to know about nuclear weapons.

The nuclear launch codes known as the "Gold Codes," the President's Decision Book, and a secure satellite communication radio and phone are all kept in the bag that the president's military aide carries with them at all times. Although this briefcase's actual name is "president's emergency satchel," people frequently call it "football." According to Smithsonian Magazine, the term "Dropkick" was used to refer to an early nuclear war strategy. To play "Dropkick," you required a "football." To authenticate nuclear launches, the president carries a personal identifying number known as "the biscuit." While in office, Bill Clinton allegedly lost his "biscuit" for several months.