Pentagon warns China has loaded over 100 ICBMs in silo fields
China has likely loaded more than 100 intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) across three newly developed silo fields, underscoring a rapid expansion of its nuclear forces and a lack of interest in arms control talks, according to a draft Pentagon report.
The report says China is accelerating the modernisation of its nuclear arsenal faster than any other nuclear-armed state. It estimates that more than 100 solid-fuel DF-31 ICBMs have probably been placed in silos located near China’s border with Mongolia. While Washington had previously disclosed the existence of these silo fields, this is the first time it has assessed the scale of missile deployment within them.
Despite recent remarks by US President Donald Trump suggesting possible denuclearisation talks involving China and Russia, the Pentagon assessment said Beijing shows “no appetite” for engaging in either confidence-building measures or broader arms control negotiations. The report noted that China continues to prioritise strategic expansion over diplomatic restraint.
China’s embassy in Washington rejected the findings, reiterating that Beijing follows a defensive nuclear posture, keeps its forces at the minimum level required for national security, and upholds a moratorium on nuclear testing. Chinese officials have consistently accused the United States of exaggerating the threat to justify its own military policies.
The report estimates China’s nuclear warhead stockpile remained in the low 600s in 2024, reflecting a slower production pace in recent years. However, it warns that China is still on track to exceed 1,000 nuclear warheads by 2030 if current trends continue.
Beyond nuclear forces, the Pentagon assessment highlighted China’s broader military ambitions, including preparations to be capable of fighting and winning a conflict over Taiwan by 2027. It said Beijing is refining options ranging from large-scale missile strikes to long-range operations designed to challenge US forces in the Indo-Pacific.
The report comes as the 2010 New START treaty between the United States and Russia nears expiration, raising concerns among experts that the absence of binding limits could trigger a three-way nuclear arms race. Arms control advocates warned that expanding arsenals without diplomacy would undermine global security and stability.
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