The world is facing increasing instability, raising concerns about the potential use of nuclear weapons, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). SIPRI's Yearbook highlights a new arms race among the nine nuclear-armed states - the US, Russia, UK, France, China, India, Pakistan, North Korea, and Israel.

While the number of nuclear warheads is decreasing due to disarmament efforts by the US and Russia, new warheads are being added to stockpiles. This trend, combined with advancements in potency, delivery, and accuracy, is leading to a new nuclear era.

Upgrades by Nuclear Powers

China is constructing 350 new launch silos and expanding its warhead count. India and China are potentially deploying warheads on missiles during peacetime, and India is developing longer-range missiles. North Korea and Pakistan are also expanding their nuclear capabilities.

The UK and France are increasing their stockpiles and enhancing their nuclear capabilities. Israel is believed to have advanced submarine-launched missile systems.

Russia and the US possess the majority of the world's nuclear arsenal, and both are modernizing their delivery systems. Russia has expanded its nuclear doctrine, lowering the threshold for nuclear weapon use.

Escalating Conflicts and Military Spending

Global military spending has surged by 37% in the past decade, reaching $2.7 trillion. SIPRI reports an increase in fatalities due to major conflicts, intensifying conventional warfare, and a desire for nuclear proliferation.

The weakening of US security guarantees and NATO's mutual defence clause has led to discussions about nuclear weapons in Europe. Several countries have signed agreements with the US to allow troop and weapon placement.

Despite efforts to curb nuclear weapons, the risk of a nuclear war remains high. The majority of UN members have ratified the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty, while 73 countries have ratified the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons.

Smith from SIPRI emphasizes that launching a nuclear war would be catastrophic and ineffective. The world must prioritize disarmament efforts to prevent the devastating consequences of nuclear conflict.