Key Points
- China’s Nuclear Arsenal Growth: China has tripled its nuclear stockpile since 2020 and is projected to exceed 1,000 nuclear bombs by 2030.
- Heightened Regional and Global Concerns: The rapid military expansion raises alarms for the US, India, and other neighboring nations.
- Diversified Nuclear Capabilities: China’s arsenal now includes precision strike missiles and intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs).
- Aggressive Posture and Regional Tensions: Beijing’s military force is increasingly assertive, escalating conflicts in the South China Sea and with Taiwan.
- Internal Corruption in the PLA: Despite military advancements, corruption within China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) poses challenges to Beijing’s ambitions.
New Delhi: The United States Department of Defense has sounded the alarm on China’s growing military power in its latest annual report titled “Military and Security Developments Related to the People’s Republic of China.” Released on December 18, 2024, the report outlines China’s unprecedented expansion of its nuclear arsenal and its increasingly aggressive geopolitical stance, causing deep concerns for the United States, India, and regional neighbors.
China’s Nuclear Arsenal Surges by Threefold
According to the report, China has tripled its nuclear stockpile since 2020. By mid-2024, the nation amassed over 600 nuclear warheads, a number projected to exceed 1,000 by 2030. A significant portion of these weapons will reportedly be in full deployment mode.
A senior US defense official highlighted that China is not only increasing the number of nuclear weapons but also diversifying their types. The arsenal now includes advanced systems such as low-yield precision strike missiles and intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), signaling Beijing’s intent to enhance its nuclear capabilities across various platforms.
Geopolitical Implications: A Threat to Stability
The report emphasizes that Beijing is more willing than ever to use military force to achieve its strategic goals. This year alone, tensions have spiked in the South China Sea, particularly with the Philippines, and with Taiwan, as China ramps up diplomatic, political, and military pressure.
President Xi Jinping’s aggressive policies and actions have created a volatile environment, with the report warning of the dangers posed by China’s assertive stance.
Corruption Within the PLA
Despite its growing military might, the report points to internal issues within China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA). Corruption remains a significant challenge, potentially undermining China’s broader ambitions. The Chinese government is actively working to mitigate these issues to ensure that its military reforms and modernization plans remain on track.
India’s Strategic Concerns
For India, China’s rapid military expansion and aggressive posturing add to existing concerns along the disputed border. Beijing’s growing nuclear capabilities and influence in South Asia heighten the need for India to strengthen its defense and diplomatic strategies.
The US Department of Defense report paints a stark picture of China’s military trajectory, with a rapidly growing nuclear arsenal and an assertive geopolitical approach. As Beijing flexes its military muscles, regional powers like India and global superpowers like the US face mounting challenges in maintaining stability and security.
