Nuclear Build-Up: India and Pakistan in a Modern Arms Race, China Accelerates Its Nuclear Expansion

The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) has reported that India is extending its lead over Pakistan in nuclear capabilities, having increased its arsenal to 180 warheads in 2025 and advancing in nuclear delivery systems. India's 'canisterised' missiles may carry nuclear warheads during peacetime and could handle multiple warheads in the future.

SIPRI's report highlights India's new Agni Prime (Agni-P) and the Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV)-capable Agni-5 systems as significant developments. With the Agni-P's recent successful test and the extensive range of the Agni-5, India is significantly bolstering its nuclear deterrent. Meanwhile, Pakistan is also advancing its nuclear capabilities, signaling the potential for increased regional tension.

Amidst this regional build-up, China is expanding its nuclear arsenal at a rapid pace. By January 2025, China had nearly completed 350 new ICBM silos, aiming to equal Russia and the United States by the decade's end. SIPRI Director Dan Smith expressed concerns over global nuclear proliferation trends and weakening arms control, hinting at a possible escalation into a nuclear arms race involving the nine nuclear-armed nations.

(With inputs from agencies.)