Nuclear Arms Race in 2024: Who Leads the Pack?

Global arms race for nuclear power continues to dominate international geopolitics, serving as a critical measure of influence and strength among nations.

A recent report by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) sheds light on the current status of nuclear weapons, revealing the nations leading the race and the alarming stockpiles amassed worldwide.

North Korea, under the leadership of Kim Jong Un, has shown the most aggressive growth in nuclear capabilities. In 2023, the country had approximately 30 nuclear warheads.

By 2024, this number nearly doubled to 50 warheads, with SIPRI estimating that North Korea has the capacity to produce an additional 90 nuclear weapons in the near future. Kim’s disregard for international law continues to fuel concerns about the region’s stability.

China another key player in the nuclear race expanding its arsenal at an unprecedented pace. In early 2023, the nation possessed 410 nuclear weapons, which surged to 500 by 2024.

This rapid growth aligns with China’s broader military ambitions including frequent drills around Taiwan. Global leaders remain wary of President Xi Jinping’s military buildup, which combines nuclear power with an increase in conventional forces.

Together, Russia and the United States hold nearly 90% of the world’s nuclear arsenal.

• Russia: The report states that Russia has 5,580 nuclear warheads, of which 4,380 are active, and 1,710 are ready for immediate use.
• While President Vladimir Putin frequently references Russia’s nuclear strength in rhetoric. Use of intercontinental ballistic missiles remains limited to tests.
• United States: The U.S. maintains a stockpile of 5,044 nuclear weapons, with 3,708 active warheads. Of these, 1,700 are on standby for rapid deployment.
• Despite dismantling older warheads U.S. continues to project. its status as global superpower with its massive nuclear arsenal.

In South Asia, India and Pakistan maintain a delicate balance of power. India possesses 172 nuclear weapons, slightly ahead of Pakistan’s 170 warheads. This near parity has deterred direct military conflict between the two countries, emphasizing the stabilizing effect of mutually assured destruction in the region.

• France: Holds 290 nuclear warheads, maintaining its position as a significant nuclear power.
• United Kingdom: Retains 225 nuclear weapons, contributing to NATO’s strategic arsenal.
• Israel: With 90 nuclear warheads, Israel continues to expand its arsenal under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, citing national security and regional dominance.

As of 2024, the world’s nuclear arsenal reflects a mix of old rivalries and emerging ambitions:

• Total global nuclear weapons: Over 12,500 warheads.
• Nations like Israel, North Korea, and China are expanding aggressively, while traditional powers like Russia and U.S. remain the largest stakeholders.
• Smaller nuclear powers like India, Pakistan, and France maintain regional stability through balanced arsenals.

Read more: Zelensky Admits Ukraine Lacks Strength to Reclaim Lost Territories, Signals Willingness for Talks with Putin

The nuclear arms race underscores the persistent threat of global escalation, with rising tensions between major powers like the U.S., Russia, and China, and emerging players like North Korea pushing the boundaries of international security frameworks.