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Title: The Strategic Implications of the Evolving US-China Nuclear Balance

Journal Article · · The Washington Quarterly
 [1]
  1. Lawrence Livermore National Lab. (LLNL), Livermore, CA (United States)

China is significantly expanding the size and sophistication of its nuclear forces. Over the summer of 2021, researchers using satellite imagery discovered three separate fields of intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) silos under construction in the deserts of north-central China. If each silo is eventually equipped with a missile, the Chinese nuclear arsenal capable of striking the continental US could triple in size. Furthermore, the US government estimates that China’s nuclear arsenal could number 1000 warheads by 2030, with at least 200 deployed on long-range platforms.

Research Organization:
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), Livermore, CA (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA)
Grant/Contract Number:
AC52-07NA27344
OSTI ID:
1876967
Report Number(s):
LLNL-JRNL-830647; 1047035; TRN: US2307353
Journal Information:
The Washington Quarterly, Vol. 44, Issue 4; ISSN 0163-660X
Publisher:
Taylor & FrancisCopyright Statement
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English