Pentagon Report Reveals China's Rapid Expansion of Nuclear Arsenal, Exceeding Previous Projections
China's rapid military build-up includes the development of over 500 operational nuclear warheads, poised to double by 2030, and an expanding navy now boasting more than 370 vessels.
- The Pentagon report reveals that China is rapidly growing its nuclear arsenal with an estimated 500 operational nuclear warheads, exceeding previous U.S. projections, and is set to double this number by 2030.
- China's nuclear arsenal still falls short of U.S. and Russia's nuclear stockpiles, but the country's accelerated nuclear production and military expansion have raised concerns among global powers.
- The country is also expanding its Navy, now boasting over 370 vessels, an increase from around 340 last year and is expected to increase to 435 by 2030.
- China is developing a new intercontinental ballistic missile system using conventional arms that could potentially conduct strikes against the United States, posing a significant security threat.
- China has increased its pressure on Taiwan with military, economic and diplomatic actions, increasing global tensions and garnering attention from the U.S.
- The report also suggests China's advances in military power are aimed at countering U.S. global power by mid-century, including the country's strategic partnership with Russia.