U.S. releases new details on alleged secret Chinese nuclear test
7 days ago
- #Nuclear Testing
- #US-China Relations
- #Arms Control
- The U.S. government alleges China conducted an illicit nuclear test in 2020 at Lop Nur, detected by a seismic station in Kazakhstan.
- Independent experts remain skeptical, citing weak seismic signals and the possibility of a natural event.
- China denies the allegations, calling them 'groundless' and accusing the U.S. of fabricating pretexts for its own nuclear testing.
- Major nuclear powers, including the U.S. and China, have not conducted official tests since the 1990s but continue sub-critical and simulation testing.
- China is expanding its nuclear arsenal, aiming for 1,000 warheads by 2030, despite having conducted only 45 tests historically.
- U.S. officials claim China is preparing for larger yield tests, potentially violating the test moratorium.
- Experts suggest China may be developing low-yield or hypersonic weapons, necessitating new tests.
- The U.S. is considering expanding its nuclear arsenal and potentially resuming testing, raising concerns about a new arms race.