China Expands Nuclear Stockpile to 620 Warheads as New Start Expiry Ends Arms Control Era
Updated
Updated · South China Morning Post · Jun 7
China Expands Nuclear Stockpile to 620 Warheads as New Start Expiry Ends Arms Control Era
3 articles · Updated · South China Morning Post · Jun 7
Summary
China’s nuclear warhead stockpile has risen to 620, SIPRI said, marking the latest expansion in Beijing’s arsenal as global disarmament efforts weaken.
SIPRI, citing US government sources, said some of the 100 missiles in three new silo fields may already carry warheads, suggesting China is moving from buildup toward deployment.
The report also said warheads may be aboard a nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine on near-continuous deterrence patrols, pointing to a broader shift in China’s operational posture.
SIPRI said the increase comes as nuclear powers are walking away from disarmament and the expiry of the New Start treaty signals the end of the arms-control era.
Can the US deter two nuclear rivals simultaneously without igniting an uncontrollable global arms race?
As AI enters nuclear command, is human error or machine miscalculation now the greater global threat?
China’s Rapid Nuclear Buildup and the Demise of US-Russia Arms Control: Risks of a New Global Arms Race
Overview
The global nuclear landscape is undergoing a profound transformation, shifting away from disarmament commitments and entering a new era of arms-race dynamics. As of January 2026, nine nuclear-armed states collectively possess over 12,000 warheads, with nearly 10,000 ready for potential use. While the total number of warheads is still declining due to the dismantling of retired weapons by the United States and Russia, this reduction is slowing as new warheads are added to national stockpiles. This trend marks a reversal of decades-long disarmament, signaling increased competition and uncertainty in global security.