SIPRI: Nuclear powers quickly arming

Researchers at the Stockholm Institute for SIPRI Peace Research warn that all nuclear powers are increasing commitment to nuclear weapons. In their annual report, they warn an increasing number of operational nuclear weapons. “We are entering one of the most dangerous periods in human history”, SIPRI Director Dan Smith said. He called for the renewal of “nuclear diplomacy” and the strengthening of international control over nuclear weapons.

The SIPRI report notes that nine US nuclear powers, Russia, Great Britain, France, China, India, Pakistan, North Korea and Israel continue to modernise their nuclear arsenals. From the beginning of 2022 to early 2023, the global level of nuclear heads, according to SIPRI estimates, has been lowered to about 200 pieces in current about 12.512. On the other hand, the number of nuclear operational weapons increased 86 to about 9,576. In his research, SIPRI contrasts between operational and total nuclear weapons reserves. The overall figure includes old nuclear weapons and those destined for disposal and reduction.

Less Transparency

Russia and the United States keep some 2,000 nuclear heads on alert. They are kept mounted on rockets or air force bases along with bombers. According to peace researchers, Russia and the United States together own almost 90 percent of all nuclear weapons. Their arsenals remained stable during 2022, though transparency dropped significantly after the war against Ukraine began.

Even the British government in 2022 did not publicly declare its number of nuclear weapons. SIPRI Director Smith stressed that the increasing amount cannot be explained with the war in Ukraine because more time is needed now to develop new heads. In addition, countries with the greatest increase in nuclear weapons were not directly affected by war.

Significant Growth of Nuclear Weapons in China

The largest increase of 60 new nuclear heads was registered by China, which increased its nuclear warheads reserves from 350 to 410. It was followed by Russia (12), Pakistan (5), North Korea (5), and India (4). . SIPRI researchers expect that China's nuclear arsenal will continue to grow, and that by the end of the decade, the country could have at least as many intercstinctical ballistic missiles as the US or Russia.

In 2022, India and Pakistan also introduced and continue to develop new types of nuclear carriers. Indian weapons are now designed for longer radiation and can achieve targets across China, the researchers assumed.

SIPRI observes with concern the country's increased rhetoric to the importance of nuclear weapons. And North Korea also continues to see a nuclear military programme as a central element of its security strategy. Researchers estimate that the country has so far built about 30 warheads and that there is enough exacerbating material to produce up to 70 warheads. / DW