In recent weeks, a Pentagon report revealed that China is exponentially increasing its nuclear arsenal and is expected to double its stockpile by the year 2030. This has caused widespread consternation throughout the world since the world’s 2nd largest economy is not only amassing weapons of mass destruction, but also has a fraught relationship with the United States.
The Pentagon report painted a dire scenario in which they projected that “China will at least double the number of warheads on its ballistic missiles that would be targeted against the United States by the late 2020s.” This isn’t entirely surprising given that China continues to expand its military reach into disputed areas in the South China Sea and has encountered numerous tensions with the United States in recent years.
The widespread availability of nuclear weapons in the world is of great concern due to the tensions that increase when countries amass arsenals. The US has always frowned upon nuclear proliferation, and China’s continued development of its arsenal adds to an already tense geopolitical situation.
In addition to the increasing number of warheads, the report also noted that China is actively developing new systems, such as nuclear-capable cruise missiles, and is expanding its missile delivery network to include submarines and bombers. This means that it is not only increasing its offensive capabilities but is also improving its defensive standing as well.
However, not everything is doom and gloom. Some experts argue that the sheer number of nuclear warheads is not necessarily an accurate indicator of a country’s power or capacity to do harm. They say that nuclear disarmament and collaboration between nations are key to de-escalating tensions and reducing the threat of nuclear war.
Nevertheless, the Pentagon report serves as a grave reminder of the potential destruction that nuclear weapons can bring. It is essential that the United States and its allies work with China to lessen growing tensions and reduce the number of nuclear warheads in the world. Only through dialogue, diplomacy, and collaboration can we ensure the safety of our world.