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The Pentagon Reported That China Is Using Nuclear Reactors for the Production of Military-Grade Plutonium, Increasing Its Nuclear Capabilities and Raising Global Concerns.
Over the past few years, China has rapidly developed its nuclear arsenal, amassing more than 600 warheads at full operational capacity.
A Pentagon report estimates that the country could reach up to 1,000 operational nuclear warheads by 2030 if it maintains its current annual production pace.
The U.S. government document also details advancements in the Chinese military program, including the development of the stealthy strategic bomber H-20, and warns of the growing risks from the increasing military Chinese expansion.
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Expansion of China’s Nuclear Arsenal
The report, presented by the U.S. Department of Defense, highlighted that most of China’s warheads are expected to be at “higher readiness levels” in the coming decades.
This strategy integrates the plan of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) to completely modernize its forces by 2049.
According to the document, China has about 400 intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) in its arsenal, in addition to intermediate-range ballistic missiles (IRBMs) and submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs).
The country is also reportedly investing in advanced technologies to enhance its strike range, potentially targeting U.S. cities and military facilities.
Plutonium Production and New Reactors
One of the most concerning points raised by the report is the use of fast nuclear reactors to produce military-grade plutonium.
Although China claims that these technologies have peaceful purposes, the Pentagon believes they are being used for military ends.
Two CFR-600 reactors located in Xiapu are reportedly in advanced stages. One of them is likely already completed, while the other remains under construction.
Each reactor could produce enough plutonium for dozens of warheads per year, reinforcing China’s ability to rapidly expand its nuclear stockpile.
The process occurs through natural uranium blankets that encase the reactor’s fuel core, creating usable plutonium for weaponry. These advancements give China a significant advantage in its nuclear race.
Modernization of the Air Force
Another crucial point of the report is the strengthening of China’s air force, currently the third largest in the world.
With more than 3,150 aircraft, of which 2,400 are combat-ready, the PLA Air Force is nearing U.S. technological standards.
Among the highlights is the stealth strategic bomber H-20, capable of conducting nuclear missions and conventional strikes.
This new model, still under development, is expected to enhance China’s capability for long-range attacks.
Furthermore, the PLA Air Force is modernizing its fleet with fourth-generation aircraft, which, according to the report, will be predominantly composed of this type of technology in the coming years.
Despite the progress, the H-20 bomber may not become operational before 2030. Still, the acquisition of new medium- and long-range stealth aircraft signals the PLA’s intention to expand its regional and global presence.
The rapid military modernization of China is viewed as a threat to the United States and its allies.
The Pentagon report suggests that the increase in China’s nuclear stockpile, combined with technological advancements in launch systems and stealth aircraft, will enable the country to target broader and more strategic objectives in the event of a conflict.
O império está em plena decadência.
Interessante que os americanos, produzir arma nuclear e ninguém reclamar o fala, agora se for outro país é hostil, os americanos são um bando de hipócritas
Os americanos fazem bombas atômicas desde 1944 e ninguém ousou reclamar. Ora, deixe os chineses fazerem as deles. Quero ver o céu iluminado no hemisfério norte. Que não sobre ninguém.