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As of early 2025, nine countries collectively hold around 12,331 nuclear warheads, according to the Federation of American Scientists (FAS). While Russia and the U.S. continue to lead the global count, countries like China, India, and Pakistan are steadily expanding their arsenals amid rising geopolitical tensions. Here's a closer look at the countries with nuclear weapons and how India and Pakistan stack up.
Russia holds the largest nuclear stockpile in the world, with approximately 5,449 nuclear weapons. Despite dismantling some decommissioned warheads, it still maintains the highest number of deployed and reserve weapons. This extensive arsenal is a core pillar of its defense strategy and global power status.
The U.S. ranks second with 5,277 nuclear warheads. Its arsenal includes land-based missiles, submarine-launched warheads, and aerial bombs. While it continues to pursue disarmament diplomacy, the U.S. is also modernizing its aging nuclear triad to stay ahead in deterrence capabilities.
China has increased its nuclear stockpile to around 600 warheads in 2025. It is actively working on expanding and diversifying its missile systems. Its nuclear buildup reflects Beijing's desire for strategic balance with the U.S. and India, and its growing assertiveness in global geopolitics.
France possesses around 290 nuclear warheads, relying mainly on submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs) and air-based delivery systems. France maintains its nuclear forces independently and views them as essential for national and European defense.
The UK holds a stockpile of 225 nuclear warheads, most of which are deployed on Trident submarines. While it has reduced its arsenal over time, recent strategic reviews have called for expanding and modernizing the system, reflecting renewed security concerns in Europe.
India is ranked 6th, with a nuclear arsenal of approximately 180 warheads. Guided by a "No First Use" policy, India’s strategy emphasizes minimum credible deterrence. However, rising regional tensions, particularly with China and Pakistan, have led to greater investment in nuclear delivery systems.
Pakistan comes next with an estimated 170 nuclear warheads in 2025. Its doctrine focuses on deterring conventional conflict with India and includes short-range tactical nuclear weapons. Pakistan has been actively increasing its arsenal, citing national security concerns.
- Israel is believed to possess around 90 nuclear warheads, although it neither confirms nor denies this. It follows a policy of nuclear ambiguity.
- North Korea, despite sanctions, has built a stockpile of 50 nuclear warheads, with continued missile testing raising global alarms.
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