China could have 1000 nuclear warheads by 2030 - Pentagon
Kyiv • UNN
The Pentagon reports a rapid increase in China's nuclear capability to 1,000 warheads by 2030. The country also has the largest navy in the world and is actively modernizing its military.
China is rapidly building up its nuclear arsenal and could have 1,000 nuclear warheads by 2030. Over the past year, China has added at least 100, bringing its total number to more than 600. Politico writes about this with reference to a new Pentagon report on Beijing's military power, UNN reports.
Details
The assessment comes amid uncertainty over the policy of the incoming Donald Trump administration toward China. It is expected that Trump, who will replace Joe Biden, will increase economic pressure on Beijing and appoint officials with a tough attitude toward China, including Mark Rubio and Mike Volz, to key positions.
The Pentagon's report also examines the development of the Chinese Navy and Air Force, as well as the problem of corruption in the defense sector. China continues to adhere to the "no first use of nuclear weapons" policy, but is actively working to expand and modernize its nuclear forces.
Increase in defense spending
Beijing plans to increase defense spending. According to the report, China's real budget is at least 40% higher than the officially announced figures and will amount to approximately $330-450 billion in 2024.
At the same time, the U.S. defense budget remains the largest in the world, with Biden's latest request amounting to $880 billion and likely to increase after Congress passes it.
China's military potential
China has the world's largest navy, with more than 370 ships and submarines, including more than 140 large warships. In 2025, a new aircraft carrier, the Fujian, is to join the fleet.
The Chinese Air Force is ramping up production of the fifth generation of J-20 fighter jets and expanding its production capacity. Of the 1,900 fighters in China's inventory, 1,300 are of the fourth generation, which can compete with the most advanced aircraft in the United States and Europe.
Corruption and logistical problems
Despite its rapid modernization, the Chinese army faces corruption. Over the past year, 15 high-ranking officials involved in corruption schemes related to the development of nuclear and conventional missiles were removed from their posts.
In addition, China has logistical difficulties in deploying its troops and equipment far beyond the mainland, which limits its ability to project power beyond the South China Sea.
Previously
China's top diplomat said on Tuesday that he hoped the new administration of US President-elect Donald Trump would "make the right choice" and work with Beijing.
