India Enhances Long-Range Nuclear Capabilities Amidst Regional Tensions, SIPRI Reports

India’s ongoing nuclear modernization efforts are increasingly centered on the development of long-range weapons designed to reach targets across China, according to a report released by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) on Monday. This shift in focus highlights India’s strategic imperative to bolster its nuclear deterrence in response to China’s expanding military capabilities, while still being influenced by its historical rivalry with Pakistan.

The SIPRI report indicates that India’s nuclear arsenal has seen a slight increase, now totaling approximately 190 warheads, an increase of ten from the previous year. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s nuclear stockpile remains steady at 170 warheads. The report notes that Pakistan continues to enhance its delivery systems and accumulate fissile material, hinting at a potential growth in its nuclear capabilities over the next decade.

Recent developments underline the complex dynamics between India and Pakistan, particularly following the military conflict in May 2025, during which India conducted strikes on Pakistani air and missile bases believed to support nuclear operations. Despite this escalation, both nations took precautionary measures to prevent further deterioration of the situation.

China, with an estimated 620 nuclear warheads, is reportedly accelerating its nuclear arsenal expansion at a pace unmatched by other nations. SIPRI predicts that by the end of the decade, China could possess as many intercontinental ballistic missiles as the United States or Russia, raising significant concerns in the region and beyond. This rapid development underscores the shifting balance of power in Asia and the potential implications for regional stability.

As of January 2026, the global count of nuclear warheads stands at approximately 12,187, with nearly 9,745 actively deployed. The complexities of nuclear deterrence and military strategy among these three countries continue to shape the security landscape of South Asia, compelling India to persist in its efforts to modernize its military capabilities.

Source: scroll.in