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| Foto:China has loaded more than 100 intercontinental ballistic missiles |
VISTORBELITUNG.COM,According to a recent Reuters report citing satellite imagery and expert analysis, China has loaded more than 100 intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) across its three newest nuclear missile silo fields. This development represents one of the most significant expansions of China's nuclear arsenal in decades and has notable implications for global strategic stability.
The report, based on commercial satellite imagery analyzed by researchers at the Federation of American Scientists and other security experts, indicates that China has completed and armed silos in three major fields located in:
1. Yumen (Gansu province) – Approximately 120 silos
2. Hami (Xinjiang region) – Approximately 110 silos
3. Ordos (Inner Mongolia) – Approximately 100 silos
While not every silo is believed to contain a missile, the analysis suggests that over 100 ICBMs have been distributed across these sites. Many of the silos are thought to contain China's DF-41 missiles, which are capable of carrying multiple nuclear warheads and reaching targets anywhere in the United States.
China has traditionally maintained a relatively small nuclear arsenal compared to the United States and Russia, adhering to a policy of "minimum deterrence." This expansion suggests a potential shift toward a larger, more launch-ready force.
Chinese officials have consistently stated that their nuclear policy remains defensive. Following the Reuters report, the Chinese Foreign Ministry reiterated that China's military development is "always aimed at safeguarding national sovereignty, security, and development interests" and that China adheres to a "no first use" nuclear policy.
The expansion has drawn attention from global powers:
United States: The Pentagon's 2023 China Military Power Report noted China's rapid nuclear expansion, estimating its nuclear warhead count could reach over 1,000 by 2030. U.S. officials have called for greater transparency and dialogue on nuclear arsenals.
Russia: As China's strategic partner, Russia has made no official criticism, but analysts note the shifting balance within the traditional U.S.-Russia nuclear dyad.
Regional Neighbors: The buildup is watched closely by India, Japan, and other regional powers, potentially influencing their own defense planning.
"China is moving from a small, survivable nuclear force designed for retaliation to a larger, more sophisticated arsenal that provides more options and resilience," said Dr. Matthew Miller, a nuclear security analyst. "This doesn't necessarily indicate a shift to a first-strike posture, but it does complicate the strategic calculus for other nuclear powers."
Other experts caution that silos are inherently vulnerable targets. Some suggest that China may use a strategy of "shell games," where not every silo is occupied, making it difficult for an adversary to disable the entire force in a first strike.
China's buildup occurs at a time when traditional arms control agreements are fraying. The U.S.-Russia New START treaty is the last major pact limiting deployed strategic weapons, and China has consistently declined invitations to join trilateral arms talks, citing the much larger sizes of the American and Russian arsenals.
This expansion may increase pressure on China to engage in strategic stability talks as its arsenal grows in both size and capability.
The loading of missiles into these new silo fields marks an operational milestone in China's military modernization. It underscores Beijing's commitment to ensuring a credible and survivable nuclear deterrent as it perceives growing strategic competition, particularly with the United States.
The international community will be closely monitoring China's next steps, including testing patterns, transparency measures, and any potential shifts in its declared nuclear doctrine.