Which of the following is categorized as a vital asset essential to national security?

Nuclear weapons are categorized as a vital asset essential to national security due to their role in deterrence, defense strategy, and the safeguarding of a nation’s sovereignty. They serve as a critical component in ensuring a country can protect itself from external threats and maintain stability within its borders. The possession and potential use of nuclear weapons can prevent aggression from adversaries, thereby playing a fundamental part in national defense strategy.

In contrast, while education facilities, public libraries, and tourist attractions play important roles in society and may contribute to the overall well-being, development, and cultural enrichment of a nation, they do not hold the same level of strategic importance concerning immediate national security needs. These assets contribute to societal strength and cohesion, but they do not have the same direct impact on the defense or deterrence capabilities of a nation as nuclear weapons do.