US Intelligence: China is Developing Unprecedented Nuclear Weapons
US intelligence agencies believe China is developing a "new generation" of nuclear weapons and conducted at least one secret explosive test in February, CNN reported, citing sources.
US officials assess that this modernization program marks a major shift in Beijing's nuclear strategy, moving beyond its current arsenal of approximately 600 operational warheads.
An anonymous US official told CNN that China is developing an entirely new class of weapons for which the country has "no prior database" – indicating a technological leap compared to its traditional nuclear arsenal.
Secret Test at Lop Nur Facility
According to intelligence reports, China conducted a nuclear test explosion in June 2020 at the highly classified Lop Nur facility, located in the country's remote northwestern region.
The explosion recorded a seismic event measuring 2.75 on the Richter scale, according to data reviewed by US Assistant Secretary of State Christopher Yeaw. Yeaw assessed that it was highly likely a single, deliberate explosion, rather than a natural phenomenon.
Notably, the 2020 test occurred despite China having imposed a moratorium on nuclear testing since 1996 – raising serious questions about Beijing's commitment to nuclear arms control.
First Development of Tactical Nuclear Weapons
Sources indicate that Beijing is developing low-yield tactical nuclear weapons – a first in the history of its nuclear program. This move is believed to be intended for potential conflict scenarios should the US intervene militarily to defend Taiwan.
US officials estimate that the financial investment in this program is substantial, although specific figures have not been disclosed.
Beijing Rejects Accusations
In response to the information, a representative from the Chinese Embassy in Washington told CNN that the US had "distorted and smeared" China's nuclear policy.
The new report comes amid escalating strategic competition between Washington and Beijing, particularly concerning the Taiwan issue and the military balance in the Indo-Pacific region.
