Pentagon reports or other credible defense analysis publications

Pentagon Report: China Expands Nuclear Arsenal to Over 600 Warheads, Increased from 500, Projected to Exceed 1,000 by 2030

Dec 18, 2024, 05:22 PM

The Pentagon's latest report reveals that China has rapidly expanded its nuclear arsenal, now estimated to exceed 600 operational nuclear warheads, a significant increase from 500 just a year prior. This growth is part of a broader military buildup that includes the addition of hundreds of new missiles. The report highlights that China's nuclear stockpile has nearly tripled since 2020 and projects that the country could have over 1,000 nuclear warheads by 2030. The findings underscore concerns regarding China's military capabilities and its strengthening ties with Russia. The report also notes that the People's Liberation Army (PLA) continues to face internal challenges, including corruption, even as it enhances its nuclear and conventional forces.