Nuclear weapons profile: China

Precise information on the extent of China’s nuclear arsenal is difficult to obtain, due to a lack of open source information and often contradictory or exaggerated claims.

Over the last two decades China has been actively expanding its nuclear capabilities in order to achieve a more robust and survivable nuclear force; at the same time as developing a credible second-strike capability.

• China’s nuclear posture is based on the concept of “self-defence” and, as such, it maintains a nuclear force based on the minimum required for its national security.
• It has a longstanding no first-use policy.
• China’s nuclear stockpile is estimated at 350 warheads.
• Nuclear forces are maintained at a low alert level. No warheads are thought to be operationally deployed but kept in storage under central control.
• Is believed to have a viable nuclear triad of ground, air and sea-launched forces.
• Does not operate continuous at-sea deterrence.

The extent of China’s nuclear expansion has raised questions over the compatibility of its modernisation plans with its posture of self-defence and no first use.

This short paper is intended as an introduction to China’s nuclear weapons policies and programmes. It is part of a series of country profiles which are available on the House of Commons Library website.