China’s Increasing Nuclear Arsenal: Pentagon Report Reveals Surprising Numbers

Washington. China is increasing its nuclear arsenal at a faster rate than estimated by the United States, according to a Pentagon report published this Thursday.

According to the annual report on “Chinese military power,” commissioned by Congress, China had “more than 500 operational nuclear warheads in May 2023” and is expected to have “more than 1,000 by 2030.”

These figures, although similar to a previous Pentagon report in 2021, suggest that China could surpass Washington’s previous estimates. The report also highlights the expansion and modernization of the Chinese military, which exerts strong pressure on Taiwan, a self-governing island whose sovereignty is claimed by Beijing.

The report indicates that China is working to improve its ability to propel nuclear warheads from land, air and submarines. In addition, it is noted that China “has probably completed” the construction of ICBM launch facilities, with more than 300 silos in total.

Comparatively, the United States has 3,708 nuclear warheads and Russia 4,489, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (Sipri).

Despite rising tensions, China and the United States resumed bilateral dialogue, although Beijing continues to refuse direct high-level communication between military commanders. US officials expressed concern and urged China to be more transparent about its nuclear and military activities.

China has likely completed construction of ICBM launch facilities with more than 300 silos in total and is seeking to improve its ability to propel warheads from land, an aircraft or a submarine. (HANDOUT/AFP)

2023-10-19 17:22:10
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