US vs Russia vs Asia: The Nuclear Stockpile Race You Need to Know

The world’s nuclear stockpile has dramatically shrunk since the Cold War, yet nuclear weapons remain central to global security. According to the Federation of American Scientists’ Status of World Nuclear Forces (data updated October 2025), the nine nuclear-armed states collectively possess 12,321 nuclear warheads as of early 2026. Russia continues to lead, closely followed by the United States. Meanwhile, countries like China, India, and Pakistan are gradually expanding their stockpiles, slowing the pace of global reductions.

H2: Top 9 Countries by Nuclear Stockpiles (2025–26)

Key Insight: Russia and the United States together control roughly 86% of the world’s total nuclear inventory.

Russia & United States – The Dominant Nuclear Powers

Russia remains the largest nuclear power,

• Military Stockpile: 4,309 warheads
• Total Inventory: 5,459 (includes retired weapons)

The United States follows closely,

• Military Stockpile: 3,700 warheads
• Total Inventory: 5,177

Both nations continue dismantling retired warheads, contributing to the long-term decline in global nuclear weapons.

China’s Expanding Nuclear Stockpile

China ranks third globally,

• Estimated Stockpile: 600 warheads
• Rapid modernization of missile systems
• Expansion faster than earlier projections

China’s growth is one reason global stockpile reductions have slowed compared to the past three decades.

India’s Nuclear Rank in 2025-26

India holds the 6th position worldwide,

• Military Stockpile: 180 warheads
• Growth of approximately 20% over five years
• Focus on credible minimum deterrence
• India’s posture emphasizes deterrence rather than numerical expansion.

Pakistan, Israel & North Korea – Smaller but Significant

• Pakistan: 170 warheads, steady expansion
• Israel: Nearly 90 warheads (undeclared policy)
• North Korea: Nearly 50 warheads, growing capabilities

Though smaller in numbers, these arsenals carry major regional implications.

Question

Q. Which country holds the largest nuclear stockpile in 2025-26?

A) United States
B) China
C) Russia
D) France