Since the development of the first atomic bomb in 1945, nuclear weapons have remained a critical part of global military power and international security. Despite international efforts to prevent the spread of these devastating weapons, nine countries currently possess nuclear arsenals.
In 1968, the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) was introduced to curb the expansion of nuclear weapons. At that time, only a handful of states had nuclear capabilities. Since then, the number of nuclear-armed nations has grown, with North Korea being the only country to officially withdraw from the NPT and develop nuclear weapons independently.
Global Nuclear Warhead Estimates
According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), there are approximately 12,241 nuclear warheads worldwide as of 2025. Out of this number, around 9,614 warheads are stockpiled for military use and are ready for deployment via missiles, submarines, aircraft, and other strategic delivery systems.
- Notably, the United States and Russia alone hold roughly 87% of the world’s total nuclear arsenal and about 83% of the active warheads ready for use.
List of the 9 Nuclear-Armed Countries and Their Estimated Warheads:
- Russia – 5,459 nuclear weapons
- United States – 5,177 nuclear weapons
- China – 600 nuclear weapons
- France – 290 nuclear weapons
- United Kingdom – 225 nuclear weapons
- India – 180 nuclear weapons
- Pakistan – 170 nuclear weapons
- Israel – 90 nuclear weapons
- North Korea – 50 nuclear weapons
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Conclusion
The existence of nuclear weapons remains one of the greatest challenges to global peace and security. As geopolitical tensions evolve, monitoring nuclear stockpiles and promoting disarmament remain crucial for preventing the threat of nuclear conflict.
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