The Daily

Why Is China Expanding Its Nuclear Arsenal?

Jul 29, 2021

David E. Sanger, a White House correspondent for The New York Times with expertise in national security, discusses China's significant nuclear arsenal expansion. Recent satellite images reveal over 100 new missile silos, signaling a shift from a minimal deterrent strategy. Sanger explores the reasons behind this change, including concerns about U.S. missile defenses and regional threats. He delves into how these developments impact global military dynamics and reflect China's ambitions for superpower status in a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape.

20:14

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Episode guests

David E. Sanger

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Episode notes

Intro

3min

Shifting Strategies: China's Nuclear Arsenal Expansion

3min

Shifting Strategies: China's Nuclear Arsenal Expansion

4min

China's Nuclear Ambitions

10min

Finding Value and Navigating Political Changes

3min

For decades, nuclear weapons did not figure prominently in China’s military planning. However, recent satellite images suggest that the country may be looking to quintuple its nuclear arsenal.

Why is China changing strategy now?

Guest: David E. Sanger, a White House and national security correspondent for The New York Times.

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Background reading:

Is China scrapping its “minimum deterrent” strategy and joining an arms race? Or is it merely looking to create a negotiating card?

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