Nuclear warheads
Coverage of Nuclear warheads in the Nexus archive.
- What India’s 12 ‘operationally deployed’ nuclear warheads really mean
India's deployment of 12 nuclear warheads reflects the maturation of its second-strike capability, not a departure from its 'no first use' doctrine, according to SIPRI. The move aligns with global trends of nuclear modernization and declining arms-control frameworks.
- Nuclear powers increasing deployment of warheads, SIPRI warns
Nuclear-armed states are increasing the deployment of warheads to operational delivery systems, raising conflict risks despite declining overall stockpiles. SIPRI warns that geopolitical rivalry and a new arms build-up could reverse decades of nuclear arsenal reductions.
- China adds warheads as nuclear powers ‘walk away’ from disarmament: SIPRI
China increased its nuclear warhead stockpile to 620 as of January 2026, according to a SIPRI report warning that major powers are abandoning disarmament commitments. The report highlights China added 20 warheads and may have expanded operational deployments.
- DOE eyes using plutonium in nuclear fuel
The U.S. Department of Energy is considering allowing up to five companies to use surplus plutonium, previously used in nuclear warheads, as fuel for nuclear power. The department has selected these firms for 'advanced' applications.
- Energy Department takes steps toward allowing plutonium, historically used in weapons, in nuclear fuel
The U.S. Energy Department is considering allowing up to five companies to use surplus plutonium—historically used in nuclear warheads—as fuel. The department has initiated advanced negotiations with selected firms regarding the allocation of this material.
- US picks potential partners for using Cold War-era plutonium as fuel
The Trump government plans to repurpose approximately 20 tonnes of plutonium from dismantled nuclear warheads as fuel for US power companies. This initiative aims to utilize Cold War-era materials for energy production.
- Russia rehearses ‘use of nuclear forces’ in drills with Belarus
Russia conducted a three-day military exercise with Belarus that included the deployment of nuclear warheads to Belarusian sites. The drills focused on practicing the use of nuclear forces between the two countries.
- Putin says Russia test launches "most powerful missile in the world"
Russia has test launched a new long-range missile capable of carrying nuclear warheads, months after the last treaty with the US expired. The missile is claimed to be the most powerful in the world. This development comes amid heightened tensions between Russia and the US.
- Putin says Russia test launches "most powerful missile in the world"
Russia has test launched a new long-range missile capable of carrying nuclear warheads, following the expiration of its last treaty with the US. The missile is claimed to be the most powerful in the world. This development comes months after the treaty's expiration.