Photo: depositphotos.
According to the Pentagon, China is rapidly increasing the number of nuclear warheads, which is causing concern among world leaders.
According to the Pentagon’s annual report on China’s military power, Beijing continues to actively increase its nuclear arsenal. According to the Time Ukraine Israel portal, citing Politico, over the past year, China has added at least 100 nuclear warheads to its stockpile, which now totals more than 600. It is expected that by 2030, China will have up to 1,000 nuclear weapons.
Rapid build-up of nuclear capabilities
According to the report, Beijing is not only increasing the number of warheads, but is also modernising its nuclear arsenal, with a particular focus on the development of intercontinental ballistic missiles. These missiles have significantly increased survivability and range, allowing China to increase the effectiveness of its nuclear forces. The report also describes the development of new conventional intercontinental missiles capable of reaching territories such as Hawaii, Alaska, and the continental United States.
“Do not use first” policy and new strategic plans
Despite the large-scale build-up of its nuclear arsenal, China adheres to a “no first use” policy, which means that it does not use nuclear weapons in the first place. Beijing emphasises the possibility of a massive counterstrike in response to threats, which is an important component of its nuclear strategy.
Defence spending and development of military equipment
China is actively investing in the modernisation of its military capabilities. Although not officially disclosed in full, the country’s defence budget is estimated to be between $330 and $450 billion in 2024, which is 40% more than the officially announced figures. This spending allows China to develop cutting-edge military technologies, including the fifth-generation J-20 fighter jet and the expansion of ship production for the navy, which is the largest in the world.
Corruption and challenges in military modernisation
Despite significant achievements in military modernisation, China faces serious corruption problems within the People’s Liberation Army. Over the past year, 15 high-ranking military officers and defence industry executives have been dismissed for corruption, which has jeopardised some important projects, including the development of advanced nuclear missiles.
Competition with the United States and Prospects for the Development of China’s Military Power
Although China is actively building up its military capabilities, it still cannot match the US military potential in pure numbers. The US defence budget will remain the highest in the world, but China is already ahead of the US in terms of the number of ships in its navy, and the third Fujian aircraft carrier is expected to be commissioned soon.
Increased military tensions in the region
These strategic achievements by China come against a backdrop of rising tensions in Southeast Asia. Despite the resumption of some military talks with the United States, China has shown an unwillingness to cooperate at the highest level, which increases the risk of military clashes in the near future.
