Nuclear-armed countries and warhead counts

Here is a list of the nuclear-armed countries along with their approximate number of warheads as of 2024, based on estimates from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) and the Federation of American Scientists (FAS):

1. Russia

• Total warheads: ~5,580

  • Deployed (ready for use): ~1,710

  • In reserve/storage: ~2,870

  • Retired (awaiting dismantlement): ~1,000

2. United States

• Total warheads: ~5,044

  • Deployed (ready for use): ~1,770

  • In reserve/storage: ~2,000

  • Retired (awaiting dismantlement): ~1,274

3. China

• Total warheads: ~500

  • Rapidly expanding its arsenal; expected to grow significantly in the coming years.

4. France

• Total warheads: ~290

  • All warheads are part of a sea-based deterrent (submarine-launched missiles).

5. United Kingdom

• Total warheads: ~225

  • Primarily submarine-based (Trident missiles).

6. Pakistan

• Total warheads: ~170

  • Increasing stockpile; relies on land-based missiles.

7. India

• Total warheads: ~164

  • Expanding arsenal with land, air, and sea-based capabilities.

8. North Korea

• Total warheads: ~50

  • Uncertain but growing; likely has enough fissile material for more.

9. Israel

• Total warheads: ~90 (estimated, undeclared)

  • Maintains a policy of nuclear ambiguity (“neither confirm nor deny”).

Notes:

• Russia and the U.S. possess over 90% of the world’s nuclear weapons.

• China is rapidly modernizing and expanding its arsenal.

• India and Pakistan are increasing their stockpiles amid regional tensions.

• North Korea continues nuclear tests and missile development.