List of Countries with Nuclear Weapons

Countries with Nuclear Weapons

State of Nuclear Arsenal

Nuclear arsenals around the world differ significantly in scope among nations with these weapons. Here’s a snapshot of the current picture globally:

Officially Recognized Nuclear Weapon States

Five countries get the official nod as nuclear-weapon states under the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT):

Country	Strategic Warheads	Total Nuclear Warheads	NPT Signatory
United States	1,419	5,550	Yes
Russia	1,549	6,375	Yes
United Kingdom	225	225	Yes
France	290	290	Yes
China	350	350	Yes

Sources: Arms Control Association, Wikipedia

These countries aren’t just sitting on their stockpiles—they’re busy giving their nuclear delivery systems a facelift while keeping their arsenals up-to-date.

States Known or Believed to Possess Nuclear Weapons

A handful of other countries are in the nuclear club, albeit without the formal recognition under the NPT. They include:

Country	Estimated Nuclear Warheads	NPT Signatory
India	160	No
Pakistan	165	No
Israel	90	No
North Korea	<30	No

Sources: Arms Control Association

These nations grew their nuclear capabilities free from the NPT framework.

For more insights, you can peek at our sections on non-signatories to the Non-Proliferation Treaty and treated members and obligations under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.

Global Nuclear Warheads

Nations with nuclear arms have a total of roughly 12,100 nuclear warheads as of March 2024 (Arms Control Association). This number includes both those ready to fire (deployed) and those stashed away (stockpiled or reserved).

The U.S. and Russia, being the powerhouses they are, contribute a big chunk to this figure by continually updating their arsenals. Meanwhile, China, India, and Pakistan aren’t resting on their laurels either, expanding their nuclear stockpiles.

If you’re keen on learning more, hop over to our sections on the list of european countries, list of nato countries, and list of developing countries.

Countries that Voluntarily Gave Up Nuclear Weapons

South Africa’s Nuclear Disarmament

South Africa pulled off something pretty special — in 1989, it became the first country to choose on its own to dismantle its homemade nukes. It had whipped up six nuclear warheads and was nearly done with a seventh. But instead of doubling down, they took apart every last weapon they had and tore up the plans and the places where these things were cooked up.

Year	Action
1989	Started taking apart its nuclear weapons
1991	Joined the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT)

So what got South Africa to change its tune? It had a lot to do with wanting to lose the cold shoulder from the international crowd and project the image of a peace-backing nation ready to play nice with others. They wanted to show they were serious about steering clear of nukes.

Kazakhstan, Belarus, and Ukraine’s Disarmament

When the Soviet Union bit the dust in 1991, Kazakhstan, Belarus, and Ukraine found themselves babysitting a load of nuclear weapons. These fresh-faced nations made big moves towards getting rid of these explosive goodies by signing onto the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).

Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan, fresh out the gate as an independent land, had around 1,400 nukes on its hands. By 1995, they handed over all that nuclear candy to Russia, where it was slated for the scrapyard.

Year	Action
1991	Hopped on the NPT bandwagon
1995	Sent 1,400 nukes off to Russia

Belarus

Just like its neighbor, Belarus ended up with a slice of the nuclear pie after the Soviet split. They agreed to the NPT in 1991 and shipped off every bit of their nuclear stockpile to Russia for breakdown.

Year	Action
1991	Signed onto the NPT
By the 1990s mid-point	Sent all nukes over to Russia

Ukraine

Ukraine walked away from the Soviet collapse with about 5,000 nuclear weapons in its pocket. By 1996, all that hardware had found its way to Russia to be taken apart.

Year	Action
1991	Signed the NPT
1996	Shifted about 5,000 nukes to Russia

Despite how things went down in 2014 when Russia rolled into Crimea, Ukraine’s still standing firm as a non-nuclear-weapon state, holding fast to the NPT guidelines.

These bold steps by South Africa, Kazakhstan, Belarus, and Ukraine put the spotlight on the push for worldwide nuclear non-proliferation. If you’re curious about how other nations handle their nuclear affairs, swing by our list of European countries and list of Asian countries articles.

Countries Participating in NATO Nuclear Sharing

NATO’s nuclear sharing is like a neighborhood watch, but with more boom. It lets certain member countries borrow nuclear weapons, mostly from the U.S., to beef up mutual security. The folks involved in this atomic club are Belgium, Germany, Italy, Turkey, and the Netherlands.

Belgium, Germany, Italy, Turkey, Netherlands

Here’s a quick look-see at which countries are playing host to these powerful party favors:

Country	NATO Nuclear Sharing Site	Type of Nuclear Weapons Hosted
Belgium	Kleine Brogel Air Base	B61 nuclear bombs
Germany	Büchel Air Base	B61 nuclear bombs
Italy	Aviano Air Base and Ghedi Air Base	B61 nuclear bombs
Turkey	Incirlik Air Base	B61 nuclear bombs
Netherlands	Volkel Air Base	B61 nuclear bombs

According to things I’ve read on Quora.

These countries don’t exactly own the nukes. Instead, they make sure these weapons are safe and sound at their place, ready to be used if things get hairy.

If you’re curious and want to know more about these places or what NATO’s up to, here are some links that might shed more light on the subject:

• list of european countries
• list of nato countries
• list of eu countries

Non-Signatories to the Non-Proliferation Treaty

India, Pakistan, Israel, North Korea

The Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), aiming to halt the spread of nuclear weapons and push for peaceful nuclear energy use, hasn’t been embraced by every nation. Some countries just aren’t on board. India, Pakistan, Israel, and North Korea have carved their paths outside this global effort.

India and Pakistan

India and Pakistan, those South Asian neighbors, aren’t just known for cricket. Their nuclear arsenals are not small change either. Both have tested nuclear weapons and own enough fissile material to show they are serious players.

Country	Initial Nuclear Test Year	Estimated Warheads	NPT Status
India	1974	Over 150	Never signed
Pakistan	1998	Up to 120	Never signed

India first stepped into the nuclear spotlight in 1974. Fast forward to 1998, and it was back at it with more tests, keeping the world on its toes. With over 150 potential warheads in its arsenal, India’s got its stockpiled material down to a science. Why no signature on the NPT? India sees the treaty as playing favorites and stands by its right to self-defense.

Pakistan, feeling the heat, joined the nuclear test club in 1998, following India’s lead. It’s got up to 120 warheads, ready to go. Not signing the NPT? It’s a matter of wanting to be recognized as a legitimate nuclear-weapon state before putting pen to paper.

Israel

Israel’s a bit like that poker player who never shows their hand. Its nuclear capabilities are shrouded in mystery, a strategy some call opacity.

Country	Initial Nuclear Test Year	Estimated Warheads	NPT Status
Israel	Undisclosed	Undisclosed	Never signed

In terms of nuclear disclosure, Israel prefers the less-is-more approach. No public confirmations here, and that’s all part of its strategic playbook. By staying out of the NPT limelight, Israel sidesteps international nose-poking, keeping its regional strategies close to its chest.

North Korea

North Korea, now there’s a plot twist. It was part of the NPT ensemble at first, then exited, stage left. This country isn’t shy about testing nuclear weapons or letting the world know it has them.

Country	Initial Nuclear Test Year	Estimated Warheads	NPT Status
North Korea	2006	Undisclosed	Withdrew in 2003

North Korea joined the NPT party in December 1985 but was caught bending the rules in 1993, leading to its 2003 exit. Since then, it’s been on a testing spree, starting in 2006, and playing the nuclear card quite openly since 2005.

For those curious about how the global nuclear map’s drawn, don’t miss the chance to peek at list of european countries or dive into the list of nato countries talking about nuclear sharing.

Ambiguity in Nuclear Weapons Possession

Israel’s Secretive Strategy

Israel’s got this sneaky approach when it comes to nuclear weapons—it’s a bit like that secret password nobody admits having, but everyone kinda knows about. This “who knows” tactic stops enemies in their tracks without waving any red flags. Even though there’s plenty of eyebrow-raising evidence out there, Israel keeps its lips zipped, saying nothing about having nukes. Arms experts reckon Israel might have around 80 to 90 warheads stashed away, but officially, Israel stays mum, keeping in line with their hush-hush security plan.

Curious about nuclear vibes in the neighborhood? Check out our list of Middle East countries for the scoop.

Japan and Its Nuclear Know-How

Japan’s often in the spotlight for its nuclear know-how, thanks to its high-tech and industrial edge. Officially, Japan’s nuclear weapon-free, but if push came to shove, they’ve got everything prepped to whip up some in no time flat (Newsweek). They’ve got the goods—piles of weapons-grade plutonium and top-notch missile tech.

Japan’s anti-nuke stance is mostly sewn into the fabric of its post-WWII pacifist rules, plus they lean on Uncle Sam for a nuclear safety net. This setup lets Japan bask in a sense of security without playing with nuclear fire.

Get more tidbits on what countries bring to the table economically by visiting our list of developed countries and list of leading GDP countries.

Country	Nuclear Status	Estimated Stockpile
Israel	Ambiguous	80-90 warheads
Japan	Non-nuclear with potential	None officially

These situations show how tangled things get in the list of nuclear weapon countries. For a bigger picture, check out related topics like list of NATO countries and list of countries by area.

Nuclear-Armed States

Officially Recognized Nuclear Weapon States

The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) gives a nod to five big players when it comes to official nuclear-weapon states: the United States, Russia, the United Kingdom, France, and China. Each has openly declared their collection of nuclear firepower and are part of the NPT club. China and France joined this elite circle in 1992.

Country	Year of First Nuclear Test	Estimated Warheads
United States	1945	~5,800
Russia	1949	~6,375
United Kingdom	1952	~225
France	1960	~290
China	1964	~320

For those curious about larger geopolitical umbrellas, the list of NATO countries and list of EU countries are worth checking out.

States Known or Believed to Possess Nuclear Weapons

Then there are the countries flying under the radar—not recognized by the NPT, but definitely packing nuclear heat. These include India, Pakistan, Israel, and North Korea, each with their own story about how they built their arsenals.

India and Pakistan

India jumped into the nuclear game with its first test in 1974 and later, a series in 1998. It’s believed India could whip up over 150 warheads with its material. Pakistan lit its first nuclear firework in 1998 too, and might have around 120 warheads. Both nations have stayed out of the NPT ring, slamming it as biased and claiming their right to self-defense.

Country	Year of First Nuclear Test	Estimated Warheads
India	1974	~150
Pakistan	1998	~120

Israel

Israel’s nuclear stance is a bit of a poker face—never confirming, never denying. It’s widely thought Israel’s got a tidy stock of nuclear goodies, though no one’s quite sure of the exact count. Learn more about Israel-like policies in our piece on the list of third world countries.

North Korea

North Korea’s nuclear saga has been a rollercoaster of drama and diplomacy. They initially joined the NPT party in 1985 but were later kicked out for not playing by the rules, leading them to leave in 1993. By 2005, North Korea was loud and proud about its nuclear arsenal and has been testing ever since.

Country	Year of First Nuclear Test	Estimated Warheads
North Korea	2006	~40-50

These nuclear twists are a huge part of understanding the bigger picture of global security. Explore more about where countries stand in our articles on the list of developed countries and the list of developing countries.

This peek into nuclear-armed states gives us a look at who’s officially acknowledged and who’s under the radar. The balance of power is often swayed by these nations, playing a major role in international peace and security talks.

Nuclear Testing History

Timeline of Nuclear Testing

Nuclear testing has been a big deal in shaping nuclear arsenals. Check out this timeline with some key nuclear testing events from the past:

Date	Event	Location	Yield (Approx.)
July 16, 1945	First nuclear device detonated by the United States (Trinity Test)	New Mexico, USA	20 kilotons
August 29, 1949	First Soviet Union nuclear test (RDS-1)	Semipalatinsk, Kazakhstan	22 kilotons
October 3, 1952	UK’s first nuclear test (Operation Hurricane)	Montebello Islands, Australia	25 kilotons
February 13, 1960	France’s first nuclear test (Gerboise Bleue)	Algerian Sahara	70 kilotons
October 16, 1964	China’s first nuclear test (596 Test)	Lop Nur, China	22 kilotons
October 30, 1961	Largest nuclear test (Tsar Bomba by USSR)	Novaya Zemlya, Russia	50-58 megatons
May 11, 1998	India does its nuclear thing (Operation Shakti)	Pokhran, India	Yields vary
May 28, 1998	Pakistan gets into the game (Chagai-I)	Ras Koh Hills, Pakistan	Yields vary
October 9, 2006	North Korea tries out nukes	Punggye-ri, North Korea	Less than 1 kiloton

Global Impact of Nuclear Testing

Nuclear testing hasn’t just been about the big booms. It has left a mark in several areas:

• Health Impact: There’s been a link between nuclear fallout and health issues, with studies suggesting around 11,000 extra deaths, mainly from thyroid cancer due to iodine-131 exposure (Wikipedia).

• Environmental Impact: Some test locations, like the Bikini Atoll in the Marshall Islands, are still no-go zones due to radioactivity from past US tests between 1946 and 1958.

• Policy and Diplomacy: The health and environmental issues got people thinking, and that’s where treaties like the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) came in, trying to stop all nuclear explosions. Though not fully active yet, it’s gathered global support.

And for the full scoop on who has nukes and their testing records, check out sections on States Known or Believed to Possess Nuclear Weapons and Timeline of Nuclear Testing.

Countries involved in nuclear testing span across different regions, and we’ve got lists to explore more European, Asian, and third world countries for some geographic context.

Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons

You ever wondered about the global effort to keep nuclear weapons in check? That’s where the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) steps in, aiming to hold back the spread of these destructive goodies and keep nuclear energy use peaceful. Let’s jump into who’s involved, what they’re supposed to do, and who’s got beef with how all this is going.

NPT Members and Obligations

With 191 countries on board, the NPT’s like the popular kid on the block when it comes to arms control agreements. But don’t expect a full house—North Korea, India, Israel, and Pakistan are out. North Korea ditched the party in 2003, and the other three chose to skip it entirely (Wikipedia).

Here’s how the membership breaks down:

1. Nuclear-Weapon States (NWS): These are the big players who’d already tested nuclear weapons before 1967. The cool kids are:

• United States
• Russia
• United Kingdom
• France
• China

1. Non-Nuclear-Weapon States (NNWS): The rest of the crew who’ve promised not to build or buy nuclear weapons, in return for a chance to use nuclear tech for non-boom purposes.

The gig for everyone? Simple rules to live by:

• Non-Proliferation: If you’re NNWS, no gun-shopping for nukes. And if you’re NWS, don’t be handing over the goods.
• Disarmament: Everybody, especially NWS, should be working on getting rid of these bad boys.
• Peaceful Use of Nuclear Energy: Everyone’s welcome to use nuclear for good stuff, provided they let the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) keep a close eye on things.

Disarmament Commitments and Criticisms

Article VI, the part that’s supposed to make the world safer, says everyone should engage in serious talks to de-nuke. Here’s the deal:

1. Stop the Arms Race: Quit trying to outdo each other in making and testing nukes.
2. Nuclear Disarmament: Work your way down to fewer and fewer weapons.
3. Complete Disarmament: Dream big, aim for no nukes at all.

But here’s the thing—lots of non-nuclear-weapon states feel like the NWS aren’t pulling their weight, particularly after the whole Cold War scene cooled off. They say things are moving too slow and aren’t too pleased about it. It’s a hot topic and continues to spark debates about the NPT’s fairness and effectiveness (Wikipedia).

Category	Member States	Key Obligations
Nuclear-Weapon States (NWS)	United States, Russia, United Kingdom, France, China	Work towards disarmament, share peaceful nuclear tech
Non-Nuclear-Weapon States (NNWS)	186 other states	No nuclear weapon-making, follow IAEA rules

For more juicy details on nuclear capabilities and policies of nations outside the NPT, check out other sections like list of countries by area and list of European countries. If you’re into the whole international agreement scene, look at the list of NATO countries and list of EU countries.