China's Nuclear Buildup

China's nuclear forces have been building up at a slower pace compared to its other military forces. However, around 2018-2019, US intelligence officials sounded the alarm about changes in China's nuclear forces. These changes include an increase in the size, accuracy, diversity, and readiness of China's nuclear arsenal. Previously, China's nuclear forces had been sitting at around 200 warheads, while the United States and Russia have over 1,500 strategic deployed nuclear warheads. China has been transitioning from liquid-fueled to solid-fueled missiles, enhancing their readiness. China's modernization efforts aim to have around 1,000 warheads by 2030. Increased accuracy provides China with the capability for limited nuclear strikes. However, China's policy has historically been centered on a no-first-use approach and a commitment to counterattack rather than engage in first strikes.