Table of Contents
Overview of SIPRI’s Annual Report
India Surpasses Pakistan: According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), India has surpassed Pakistan in the number of nuclear weapons it possesses. SIPRI’s annual report, published on Tuesday, highlighted that India has increased its nuclear arsenal from 164 warheads in January 2023 to 172 in January 2024. This increase has positioned India as the sixth-largest nuclear power globally.
Pakistan’s Nuclear Arsenal
In contrast, Pakistan has not added to its nuclear warheads, maintaining a stable count of 170 from January 2023 to January 2024. This places Pakistan just behind India in the global ranking of nuclear-armed states.
China’s Growing Arsenal
SIPRI’s report also noted significant growth in China’s nuclear capabilities. China increased its warheads from 410 in January 2023 to 500 in January 2024, with expectations for further increases. This rapid expansion underscores China’s strategic emphasis on bolstering its nuclear deterrence.
Global Nuclear Modernization
The report highlighted that all nine nuclear-armed countries, including the United States, Russia, France, China, India, and Pakistan, are modernizing their nuclear arsenals. Several countries have deployed new nuclear-capable weapon systems in 2023, indicating a continuing trend towards enhancing nuclear capabilities.
Dominance of the US and Russia
Russia and the United States collectively hold approximately 90% of the world’s nuclear weapons. Despite their vast arsenals, both countries continue to upgrade and modernize their nuclear forces.
China’s Rapid Expansion
Hans M. Kristensen, Associate Senior Fellow at SIPRI’s Weapons of Mass Destruction Program, remarked that “China is increasing its nuclear weapons count faster than any other country.” This expansion is part of China’s broader strategy to enhance its strategic capabilities and deterrence.
India and Pakistan’s Strategic Focus
While Pakistan remains a primary focus of India’s nuclear deterrent, India is increasingly prioritizing long-range weapons capable of targeting various locations across China. This shift reflects India’s strategic concerns about China’s growing military presence and capabilities.
Conclusion
India’s increase in its nuclear arsenal signifies a notable shift in the regional power balance, particularly in South Asia. As nuclear-armed states continue to modernize and expand their arsenals, the dynamics of global nuclear deterrence are becoming increasingly complex. The ongoing developments highlight the need for robust international dialogue and arms control measures to prevent escalation and ensure stability.