U.S. lacks nuclear readiness to confront China in potential war

The United States has been warned by a coalition of conservatives and military specialists that it is ill-prepared for a potential nuclear confrontation with China. This warning comes amid rising concerns about nuclear arsenals, particularly as China has made significant advancements in its own capabilities. Reports indicate that China could double its nuclear arsenal to over 1,000 warheads by 2030. Additionally, the focus of U.S. military strategy over recent decades has shifted predominantly towards the Middle East, leading to a significant reduction in the United States' tactical nuclear weapons necessary for effective deterrence in the Indo-Pacific region. The risks of this miscalculation grow particularly vivid in light of China’s increasing military prowess, as evidenced by their development of anti-ship nuclear capabilities and fractional orbital bombardment systems, which could affect conflict dynamics in the region. As tensions between the nations escalate, particularly regarding Taiwan, U.S. military experts are now modeling scenarios where immediate intervention may be necessary, which is complicated by the current state of the U.S. nuclear stockpile. Many of the existing weapons are outdated and have been left to age without modernization efforts for decades. A pressing concern raised is whether the absence of substantial tactical nuclear arms could lead to a failure of deterrence and embolden Chinese aggression in the region. Lawmakers have called for an evaluation of military preparedness and a revitalization of the U.S. strategic and tactical arsenal to ensure a credible response. Only by addressing these deficiencies can the U.S. deter potential adversaries effectively. Furthermore, growing satellite evidence indicates that China is not only reinforcing its nuclear capabilities but is also significantly expanding its naval power, aiming to establish a blue-water navy intended for global operations. The emergence of China's fourth aircraft carrier, likely to be nuclear-powered, signifies their commitment to advancing military technology and capabilities. The implications of these developments underscore the vital need for the United States to reassess its military strategy and ensure adequate defense measures are in place in an increasingly competitive great power landscape.