Global nuclear arsenal trend: India possesses more nuclear weapons than Pakistan l China develops, India leads, US and Russia dominate

The global landscape for nuclear weapons continues to evolve, as highlighted in a recent report by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). Released in early 2024, the report provides a comprehensive analysis of the nuclear arsenals of nine countries, including major powers such as the United States, Russia, China, India, Pakistan and others. At the heart of these findings is China’s notable increase in the number of nuclear warheads from 410 in January 2023 to 500 in January 2024, signaling the country’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its nuclear capabilities. Meanwhile, India maintains a larger nuclear stockpile than Pakistan, possessing 172 warheads ‘in storage’ as of January 2024. The report highlights a broader trend towards nuclear modernization in these countries, with continued advances in nuclear delivery systems and strategic deployment. Furthermore, it highlights operational dynamics, including the high alert status of more than 2,100 nuclear warheads controlled primarily by Russia and the United States, as well as China’s recent initiation of high operational alert for own warheads. This introduction sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the complexities and implications of nuclear strategies and global deterrence policy.

Key points drawn from the SIPRI report

The SIPRI report published by a Swedish consulting organization provides detailed information on the nuclear arsenals of various countries as of early 2024. The report highlights some key points about nuclear weapons all around the world.

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1. Growth of China’s nuclear arsenal: China has increased the number of nuclear warheads from 410 in January 2023 to 500 in January 2024. This growth shows China’s continuous efforts to strengthen its nuclear capabilities.
2. Nuclear status of India and Pakistan: India possesses more nuclear weapons than Pakistan. As of January 2024, India has 172 nuclear warheads, while Pakistan has 170 warheads. Both countries continue to develop new types of nuclear launch systems by 2023.
3. Global nuclear modernization: The report mentions nine countries with nuclear weapons: the US, Russia, the UK, France, China, India, Pakistan, North Korea and Israel. These countries are actively modernizing their nuclear arsenals and deploying new types of nuclear-capable weapons.
4. Active Alert Status: Approximately 2,100 nuclear warheads are maintained on high operational alert for ballistic missiles. Most of these are owned by Russia and the US. However, China is said to have begun placing some of its warheads on high operational alert for the first time.
5. Russian and American Domination: Together, Russia and the United States possess nearly 90% of all nuclear weapons globally. Russia has increased the number of deployed warheads to about 36 compared to January 2023.
6. China’s strategic position: Despite growth, China’s nuclear stockpile remains smaller than that of Russia and the United States. However, China’s strategic focus includes developing the ability to target remote locations, including across the United States.
7. Global military spending: The report also covers global military spending, which saw a significant increase in 2023 amid more international conflicts and tensions.

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In summary, the SIPRI report highlights the ongoing nuclear developments among major powers and highlights the strategic priorities and capabilities of different countries to maintain and enhance their deterrence posture their nucleus.

Source: https://anhngunewlight.edu.vn
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