The fundamental tenet of classical deterrence theory is that credible and capable threats can prevent the initiation, and contain the escalation, of Conflict.
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ZAGARE, Frank C. and KOLGOUR, D. Marc, 1998. Deterrence theory and the spiral model revisited. Journal of Theoretical Politics. 1998. Vol. 10, no. 1, p. 59–87.
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Deterrence theory posits that the threat of Retaliation is key in preventing states from engaging in conflict. The theory argues that states are less likely to initiate conflict if they believe that the costs of doing so will outweigh the benefits. The theory asserts that the credible threat of retaliation can act as a deterrent to potential aggressors.
The key elements of deterrence theory include the threat of Punishment, the certainty of punishment, and the magnitude of punishment. According to the theory, states are less likely to engage in conflict if they believe that the consequences of their actions will be severe, and that these consequences will be imposed without fail.
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In summary, the Deterrence Theory focuses on the use of the threat of retaliation to prevent conflict, while the Spiral Model focuses on the dynamic process by which actions intended to increase security can spiral into conflict.