Marking the 81st anniversary of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki atomic bombings, an analysis of global nuclear arsenals shows over 12,000 warheads distributed across nine countries, led by the US and Russia.
Marking the 81st anniversary of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki atomic bombings, an overview examines current global nuclear arsenals held by the US, Russia, China, and other nuclear-armed states.
Russia's extensive nuclear arsenal has proven ineffective in the Ukraine war, despite threats. The article argues tactical nuclear weapons are unlikely to be used due to historical ineffectiveness in non-nuclear conflicts, risk of radioactive fallout on Russian territory, and Moscow's claim over eastern Ukrainian oblasts.
China's test of a long-range ballistic missile from a submarine in the Pacific drew sharp criticism from the US and Indo-Pacific nations, who called it destabilizing and provocative amid escalating strategic competition.
Kim Jong-un declares expanding North Korea's nuclear forces as the "most correct" way to cope with global instability, citing growing US and ally threats, as analysts assess the strategic depth and intentions behind the rapidly growing arsenal.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un urged officials to significantly expand the country's nuclear arsenal and strengthen defense capabilities, aiming to "overtake the world." The comments were made during a three-day Workers' Party meeting that also reviewed economic issues and leadership changes.
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has urged for an expansion of the country's nuclear arsenal with the aim of 'overtaking the world.' The call came during a three-day Workers' Party meeting that reaffirmed the nation's commitment to nuclear forces and designated South Korea as its most hostile nation.
North Korea is strategically defending its nuclear arsenal by leveraging the global superpower rivalry, particularly between the US and China. As the Iran conflict concludes, Pyongyang anticipates renewed denuclearization pressure and seeks support from Russia and China to legitimize its weapons program and secure economic/military aid.
SIPRI reports that all nine nuclear-armed states expanded or modernized their arsenals in 2025, introducing new delivery systems. Governments are increasingly relying on nuclear weapons for national defense, with Finland and Sweden shifting their nuclear policies. The total number of nuclear weapons is around 12,200, and while old warheads are being decommissioned, new ones are being added at a faster rate.
India has deployed 12 nuclear warheads, marking a shift from storing them separately from delivery systems. This move, reported by SIPRI, indicates India's growing sea-based deterrent capability with operational nuclear-powered submarines.
China's nuclear arsenal is rapidly expanding, with estimates of 600 warheads and potentially over 1,000 by 2030. Pakistan's smaller arsenal focuses on deterring India with tactical and strategic missiles. India is developing the Sudarshan Chakra air defense system to counter both threats.
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un visited a new nuclear material production facility and vowed to "exponentially" strengthen the country's nuclear arsenal. The facility is assessed as a uranium enrichment site, potentially a fourth location, as Kim claimed production capacity has more than doubled in five years.
India and Pakistan possess nearly equal nuclear arsenals (172 vs 170 warheads), but differ significantly in doctrine and delivery. India adheres to 'No First Use' and pursues minimum deterrence, while Pakistan employs 'Full Spectrum Deterrence' to counter India's conventional strength. This divergence creates escalation risks.
Washington should reveal data on Israel’s nuclear arsenal to mitigate the risk of escalation in the Middle East, US congressmen have argued Read Full Article at RT.com
Seven in 10 South Koreans support developing nuclear weapons according to polls, while Japan's PM refuses to rule out nuclear armament. The war on Iran has transformed nuclear discourse in both countries, with IAEA chief Rafael Grossi warning of a potential global nuclear arms race. Analysts caution the non-proliferation order in East Asia remains intact but psychological barriers are eroding.
