A recent report from the Pentagon has shed light on China’s nuclear capabilities and developments, stating that China possesses more than 500 nuclear bombs and is actively working on new Inter-Continental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs). This report, submitted to the US Congress, emphasizes China’s ambitious plans to modernize, diversify, and expand its nuclear forces over the next decade.
Key Findings from the Pentagon Report:
The report confirms that China’s stockpile of operational nuclear warheads surpassed 500 by May 2023. The US Department of Defense estimates that China will have over 1,000 operational nuclear warheads by 2030, signaling significant growth in its nuclear capabilities.
China is actively developing new ICBMs that will significantly enhance its nuclear-capable missile forces. This development, coupled with the introduction of multiple independently targetable reentry vehicle (MIRV) capabilities, requires increased nuclear warhead production.
China may be exploring the development of conventionally-armed intercontinental-range missile systems, which could potentially threaten conventional strikes against targets in the continental United States, Hawaii, and Alaska. This development raises concerns about strategic stability.
Rapid Nuclear Expansion
China’s efforts to modernize and expand its nuclear forces have reached an unprecedented scale and complexity, surpassing its previous attempts. These expansion efforts include land, sea, and air-based nuclear delivery platforms. China is estimated to use fast breeder reactors and reprocessing facilities for producing plutonium, despite maintaining that these technologies are for peaceful purposes.
In 2022, China completed the construction of three new solid-propellant silo fields, which include at least 300 new ICBM silos. These silo fields are capable of housing DF-31 and DF-41 class ICBMs and are designed to enhance peacetime readiness and enable a launch-on-warning (LOW) posture.
China’s nuclear developments pose significant implications for regional and global security, underscoring the importance of monitoring and understanding these advancements.
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