According to estimates by the Union of Concerned Scientists, there are approximately 15,700 nuclear warheads worldwide, of which around 4,100 are ready for use. Around 1,800 American and Russian warheads are in a high-alert state, meaning they can be launched immediately upon notification.
The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute reported that the number of nuclear warheads in the world reached 15,850 in early 2015, with 4,300 operational warheads. In 2010, the number was around 22,600, including 7,650 active warheads.
The responsibility for reducing the global nuclear arsenal primarily rests on the United States and Russia, which possess 7,260 and 7,500 warheads, respectively. Combined, these two countries hold 90% of the world’s nuclear arsenal. Despite this, both are engaged in massive, costly modernization programs targeting delivery systems, warheads, and production capabilities.
Here’s a breakdown of the nuclear capabilities by country:
1- Russia: 7,500 Warheads
Russia currently holds the largest nuclear arsenal, with 7,500 warheads. Together with the United States, Moscow and Washington control nearly 90% of the world’s nuclear stockpile. After the Soviet Union dissolved in 1991, Russia inherited its nuclear stockpiles. The Russian strategic missile forces are largely based on the “Topol” and “Voyevoda” missile systems. In recent years, Russia’s missile forces have begun incorporating a new missile system called “Yars.” By 2016, five additional regiments were expected to receive the “Yars” system, which is reported to carry three or four nuclear warheads.
Russia is also set to test a new heavy missile called “Sarmat,” capable of carrying multiple warheads.
2- United States: 7,260 Warheads
As of early 2015, U.S. nuclear capabilities were estimated at around 4,760 active warheads, including 2,080 deployed warheads and 2,680 in storage. Additionally, about 2,340 inactive warheads are under the custody of the Department of Energy, awaiting dismantling.
3- China: 260 Warheads
China is the only major nuclear power whose arsenal is increasing, albeit modestly. The exact number of warheads is difficult to determine, but it is estimated to be around 260.
4- France: 300 Warheads
In 2015, French President François Hollande confirmed that France maintained “less than 300 nuclear warheads.” France’s nuclear deterrent includes three squadrons of 16 submarine-launched missiles and 54 air-launched missiles. Former President Nicolas Sarkozy had previously revealed this number, although U.S. experts estimated the total at 348 warheads.
5- United Kingdom: 225 Warheads
Recent research has uncovered new facts about the UK’s nuclear arsenal, which began in 1953. The UK produced 1,250 nuclear warheads between 1953 and 2013 but has since reduced its stockpile to around 225.
6- Pakistan: 100–130 Warheads
Pakistan’s nuclear stockpile is estimated to range between 110 and 130 warheads. Engaged in a nuclear arms race with neighboring India, Pakistan’s arsenal is expected to grow to 250 warheads by 2025, making it the fifth-largest nuclear power.
7- India: 90–110 Warheads
India’s nuclear arsenal is estimated to range from 90 to 110 warheads. Several centers contribute to India’s nuclear program, with the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre near Mumbai believed to house a plutonium production facility. India also possesses a robust industrial base capable of producing various nuclear reactors.
8- Israel: 80 Warheads
Israel is believed to possess around 80 nuclear warheads, according to official estimates. However, some experts from the International Institute for Strategic Studies suggest that the Israeli military may have up to 200 warheads. Israel’s Jericho-1 intercontinental ballistic missiles and Jericho-2 short and medium-range missiles could potentially carry nuclear warheads.
9- North Korea: 6–8 Warheads
North Korea is estimated to have between 6 and 8 nuclear warheads. The country has conducted nuclear tests in 2006, 2009, and 2013, leading to international sanctions. North Korea faces further sanctions by the United Nations Security Council since its first nuclear test in 2006.
10- Iran
Iran began its nuclear development program in 1950 but signed the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) in 1968 and ratified it in 1970. In 1980, Iran began enriching uranium, which led to concerns over its nuclear intentions. After a decade-long crisis, Iran agreed to a deal with major world powers to halt its non-peaceful activities. As part of this agreement, Iran pledged to reduce its enriched uranium stockpile from around 10 tons to 300 kg, either by transferring it abroad or storing it.
Experts believe Iran’s nuclear capabilities are still limited, with its arsenal including upgraded “Shahab-3” and “Qadr-1” missiles with ranges of around 1,600 km. However, Iran possesses only six mobile launch platforms for these missiles.
