Nuclear risks rise as powers expand and modernise arsenals: SIPRI study
Summary
A report by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) found that nine countries with nuclear weapons are expanding and modernizing their arsenals. This increase is creating new risks as the world moves away from disarmament and the number of nuclear weapons ready to launch stays high, especially in Russia and the United States.Key Facts
- The nine nuclear-armed states are China, France, India, Israel, North Korea, Pakistan, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
- Together, they had 12,187 nuclear warheads in January 2026, with about 9,745 kept in military stockpiles.
- Around 4,012 warheads are deployed on missiles and aircraft, and about 2,200 are on high alert, ready to launch quickly.
- Russia and the United States control 83% of the nuclear warheads available for use and almost 86% of all nuclear weapons worldwide.
- China’s nuclear arsenal grew from about 600 to 620 warheads in one year, the fastest increase among these countries.
- The UK’s arsenal did not grow last year but is expected to increase in the future.
- India and Pakistan continue to develop new nuclear weapons and delivery systems, with Pakistan also building more material for bombs.
- North Korea is thought to have around 60 warheads and is actively working to grow its nuclear capabilities.
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