Anna Hartz
China Rapidly Expands Nuclear Arsenal, Report Warns
The world’s nuclear balance is shifting. For decades, the United States and Russia have dominated the field.
But now, China is changing the picture faster than anyone expected.
A new report from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) shows that China is building nuclear weapons faster than any other country, according to Digi24.
The US and Russia Share the Majority
As of this year, China has around 600 nuclear warheads. That’s about 100 more than it had last year. At this pace, China could have around 1,500 warheads by 2035.
The United States and Russia still hold the most. Together, they control about 90% of the world’s nuclear stockpile.
Russia has 5,459 warheads. The U.S. has 5,177. However, China’s rapid buildup is starting to change the global balance.
China’s Foreign Ministry responded to the report. A spokesperson said the country follows a self-defense strategy.
He said China keeps only the minimum number of warheads it needs. He also said China promises not to use nuclear weapons first. But the report paints a more aggressive picture.
Taiwan Worries
Most of China’s nuclear warheads are not yet ready to use. Only about two dozen are on active missiles or at bases with troops.
But that number is expected to grow. China is building hundreds of underground missile silos. Many are in northern desert regions. Others are hidden in the mountains of eastern China.
President Xi Jinping is leading the charge. He is expanding China’s arsenal faster than any previous Chinese leader.
Past leaders believed a small number of weapons was enough to scare off threats. Xi clearly believes more are needed.
The U.S. has already changed its nuclear strategy to address China’s growth. Taiwan is especially worried.
China considers the island part of its territory. Many fear that a strong Chinese arsenal could stop outside countries from helping Taiwan if a war breaks out.
SIPRI also noted another shift. Fewer old weapons are being taken apart. At the same time, new weapons are being deployed more quickly.
One expert said the long period of global nuclear reduction may now be over.