China has likely loaded more than 100 intercontinental ballistic missiles across three newly developed silo fields and shows little interest in arms control discussions, according to a draft report by the US Department of Defence. The assessment underscores Beijing&rsquo;s rapidly expanding military capabilities and nuclear ambitions.
The report indicates that China is modernising and expanding its nuclear arsenal at a faster pace than any other nuclear-armed nation. Independent assessments, including those by the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, have also pointed to a sharp acceleration in Beijing&rsquo;s weapons development. China has consistently rejected claims of an aggressive military buildup, maintaining that its nuclear posture remains defensive.
According to the draft Pentagon report, more than 100 solid-fuel DF-31 intercontinental ballistic missiles have likely been deployed in silo fields located near China&rsquo;s border with Mongolia. While the existence of these sites had been acknowledged earlier, this is the first indication of the scale of missile deployment within them.
The report notes that China has shown no willingness to engage in broader arms control negotiations, despite recent remarks by US President Donald Trump suggesting possible denuclearisation talks involving China and Russia. US officials said the document remains a draft and may be revised before submission to lawmakers.
China&rsquo;s nuclear warhead stockpile was estimated to be in the low 600s in 2024, reflecting a slower production rate than in previous years. However, the report projects that Beijing is on course to exceed 1,000 nuclear warheads by 2030.
Beyond nuclear forces, the report highlights China&rsquo;s broader military buildup, including preparations aimed at achieving the capability to fight and win a conflict over Taiwan by 2027. It adds that Beijing is refining options ranging from direct force to long-range strikes that could challenge US military presence in the Asia-Pacific region.
The assessment comes as the New START treaty, the last remaining nuclear arms control agreement between the United States and Russia, nears its expiration. Analysts warn that the absence of renewed diplomacy could accelerate a three-way nuclear arms race involving Washington, Moscow and Beijing.
The report also notes that China&rsquo;s ongoing anti-corruption crackdown within the People&rsquo;s Liberation Army may temporarily affect readiness but could result in long-term improvements. Investigations have expanded across much of China&rsquo;s defence industry, including nuclear and shipbuilding sectors, amid falling revenues at major state-owned arms manufacturers.

Draft report says over 100 missiles loaded, Beijing shuns control talks globally

Pentagon Flags China ICBM Surge, Arms Talks Off EU

Draft report says over 100 missiles loaded, Beijing shuns control talks globally

December 23, 2025 | 11:01 IST