Countries with the Most Nuclear Weapons in the World

Various countries adopt strict defense policies, including nuclear weapons, for a multitude of reasons. Globally, there are over 13,000 nuclear weapons, many of which are significantly more powerful than the atomic bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. So, which country possesses the largest nuclear arsenal?

9th North Korea: 20

North Korea, known for its highly isolated political system, began developing nuclear weapons in the 1980s, disregarding international agreements and sanctions. Currently, with 20 nuclear warheads, North Korea ranks 9th globally in nuclear weapon possession. Kim Jong-un, the leader of North Korea, is widely considered a threat to international security and global peace.

8th Israel: 90

Israel possesses 90 nuclear warheads, making it the 8th largest nuclear power globally. Having commenced its nuclear weapons program in the 1960s, Israel has never officially acknowledged its nuclear arsenal. Israel maintains a strong military and uses its nuclear weapons for national security purposes.

7th India: 160

India's possession of 160 nuclear warheads may surprise many. India developed its nuclear weapons program in the late 1960s and conducted its first nuclear test in 1974. Currently, India adopts a "no-first-use" policy for nuclear weapons, meaning it pledges to use them only in retaliation.

6th Pakistan: 165

Pakistan, a former British colony, possesses 165 nuclear warheads. After conducting its first nuclear test in 1998, Pakistan began developing its nuclear arsenal in response to India's nuclear program. Similar to India, Pakistan also adheres to a "no-first-use" policy for nuclear weapons, but the nuclear arms race between the two nations fuels regional tension.

5th United Kingdom: 225

The United Kingdom ranks 5th with 225 nuclear warheads. Commencing its nuclear weapons program in the 1950s alongside the United States, the UK has maintained a formidable nuclear arsenal since then. While the UK retains nuclear weapons to ensure national security, the likelihood of their use is low due to political considerations.

4th France: 290

France holds a total of 290 nuclear warheads, securing the 4th position among nuclear weapon states. Initiating its independent nuclear weapons program in the 1960s, France is known to possess nuclear warheads deployed through missiles and submarines. France has a strict "no-first-use" policy for nuclear weapons, restricting their potential use.

3rd China: 350

China possesses 350 nuclear warheads, securing the 3rd position among nuclear weapon states. Starting its nuclear weapons development in the 1960s, China has continued its research and development efforts. China's nuclear weapons are considered a tool for maintaining national security and influence.

2nd United States: 5,428

The United States holds a total of 5,428 nuclear weapons, making it the second-largest nuclear power. Initiating the use of nuclear weapons in 1945, the US has maintained a powerful arsenal ever since. The US strives to maintain international security by deterring other countries from launching nuclear attacks, based on the principle of "deterrence." Belgium, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Turkey all host US nuclear weapons.

1st Russia: 5,977

Russia holds the largest nuclear arsenal with a total of 5,977 nuclear weapons, securing the top spot. Having experienced a nuclear arms race with the US during the Cold War, Russia established itself as a major nuclear power. Recently, the ongoing conflict with Ukraine has raised concerns regarding the potential expansion of its nuclear arsenal. Since June 2023, the leaders of Russia and Belarus have claimed the presence of a significant number of nuclear weapons in Belarus, further unsettling the international community.