Which Countries Have Nuclear Weapons, and How Many in 2025?

Nine countries in the world have nuclear weapons. Most of them are expanding and upgrading their arsenals, according to the latest report by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI).

The United States and Russia hold nearly 90% of the world’s total nuclear warheads. Both countries continued modernising their systems in 2024.

China, India, and Pakistan also expanded their stockpiles and tested new missile systems.

The SIPRI Yearbook 2025 shows that a new nuclear arms race is taking shape. Countries are not only building more nuclear weapons, but also upgrading them with faster and smarter technology. At the same time, old arms control agreements are breaking down, increasing the risk of conflict.

According to SIPRI, China is expanding its nuclear arsenal faster than any other country. Its stockpile grew from 500 to 600 warheads in one year. It has built over 350 new missile silos and may now keep some warheads ready for launch even in peacetime. At this pace, China could reach 1500 warheads by 2035.

The report states that the United States and Russia still hold about 90 percent of the world’s nuclear weapons. Both are upgrading their arsenals and may increase deployments in the near future. The New START treaty between them will expire in early 2026, and there are no signs of a replacement agreement.

SIPRI highlights that India and Pakistan continue to grow their nuclear capabilities. India is developing new types of missiles that can carry warheads even during peacetime. Pakistan is producing more delivery systems and fissile material. Tensions between the two countries led to a brief armed conflict in early 2025. SIPRI warns that the spread of false information during such conflicts could trigger a nuclear crisis.

Pakistan’s total remains at 170 warheads. But SIPRI says it is producing more fissile material and testing new delivery systems, which could lead to further growth.

The report warns of rising tensions between India and Pakistan. Armed clashes in early 2025 involved strikes near nuclear facilities. Disinformation added to the threat.

Matt Korda of SIPRI said such situations could trigger nuclear crises if not contained. He called this “a stark warning” for any country planning to rely more on nuclear weapons.

SIPRI says the world is heading toward a new arms race. Old arms control agreements are no longer in place or being followed. Meanwhile, military stockpiles are growing. More warheads are now on high alert than before.

Countries With the Most Nuclear Weapons in 2025

Note: “Deployed” means ready for use on missiles or aircraft. “Stored” refers to warheads in reserve. “High alert” refers to warheads mounted on missiles ready to launch.

The SIPRI report highlights several key trends. The United States and Russia have slightly reduced their overall nuclear stockpiles, but both continue to keep a significant number of warheads on high alert, ready for immediate use. China has rapidly expanded its arsenal, increasing from 500 to 600 warheads in just one year.

India and Pakistan are expected to continue growing their stockpiles in the coming years, supported by ongoing development of new delivery systems and the production of fissile material. Israel and North Korea remain secretive about their nuclear capabilities, but estimates suggest that Israel holds around 90 warheads, while North Korea may possess about 50.

North Korea also continues to expand its nuclear program. As per the report, it now has around 50 warheads and enough material to make up to 40 more. It is developing tactical nuclear weapons and accelerating fissile material production. Its leader recently called for unlimited growth of the country’s nuclear forces.

SIPRI estimates that Israel, which does not officially confirm its nuclear weapons, is also upgrading its capabilities. It tested a missile propulsion system in 2024 and appears to be improving its Dimona nuclear facility.

Growing Global Risk

The report also notes that new technologies—like AI, cyber tools, and space systems—are changing how countries use nuclear weapons. These tools speed up decision-making but also increase the risk of mistakes during crises. Traditional arms control models no longer match today’s realities.

SIPRI also observes that more countries are reconsidering their nuclear roles. Russia has likely deployed nuclear weapons in Belarus. NATO members are open to hosting U.S. weapons. France wants its nuclear deterrent to support European defense. Debates about nuclear weapons are also growing in East Asia and the Middle East.

The SIPRI report makes it clear: the world is moving away from arms control and toward nuclear buildup. More weapons and faster systems do not mean more security. They raise the risk of escalation, accidents, and devastating misjudgments.

The report says about 2,100 warheads are now on high alert. Most belong to the U.S. and Russia. But China may now also keep some ready during peacetime.

SIPRI concludes that global nuclear risks are growing, while control measures are weakening. It warns that without political action, the world may face a more dangerous future.

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