China's nuclear expansion: New missiles and Russian ties strengthen strategic ambitions
China has 600 nuclear warheads and is working on new intercontinental missiles, according to a report released by the Pentagon on Wednesday. The document also addresses issues of military corruption and China's growing cooperation with Russia.
China currently has 600 nuclear warheads and is intensively developing new intercontinental missiles. Compared to previous data, the number of Chinese warheads has increased by 100. China plans to expand its arsenal further by 2035.
China's increasing military ambitions
The Pentagon report indicates that China is developing new types of ballistic missiles, including intercontinental ones (ICBMs), which require increased production of nuclear weapons. China now has the largest navy in the world, and its air force matches American standards.
However, the Chinese military struggles with corruption among high-ranking officers and officials. "This wave of corruption touches every service in the PLA, and it may have shaken Beijing's confidence," the report states.
Cooperation with Russia and challenges for Beijing
The Pentagon highlights China's growing cooperation with Russia, including support for its military industry, while noting that Russia's collaboration with North Korea raises concerns in Beijing. This is particularly due to the risk of Russia transferring weapons technology or dual-use goods that might aid Pyongyang's nuclear weapons program, which contradicts China's stated opposition to nuclear proliferation on the Korean Peninsula.
China aims to establish a new world order, as the current international system is viewed as limiting its strategic ambitions. Cooperation with Russia is part of this plan, although Beijing does not accept all of Moscow's actions, especially those related to North Korea. The Pentagon report highlights that Russia's alliance with North Korea poses "a risk to its reputation as a responsible great power."
