How many countries have nuclear weapons? Nuclear powers: who has the deadliest weapons in the world
Modern scientists, engineers and military personnel have managed to create unique weapon, which is much more powerful than the one used by America in 1945 during the bombing of Japanese cities. After this incident, many countries began to develop nuclear weapon and accumulate it in large quantities. IN modern conditions For some countries, the presence of nuclear weapons is necessary element security.
It is interesting to know which countries have the greatest nuclear potential, because they can be considered superpowers. For this reason, a top has been formed the strongest and most powerful nuclear powers in the world 2015. Both official and unofficial information were used.
10. Iran
- : Unofficial
- Start of testing: absent
- Completion of tests: absent
- Nuclear potential: 2.4 tons of uranium
- : ratified
This country is constantly accused of illegal storage and development of nuclear weapons. Iran has never conducted a test in its history. The government signed an agreement banning nuclear weapons tests.
There is a lot of information that Iran is capable of producing one unit per year of this weapon. At the same time, engineers must spend at least five years building a full-fledged bomb. Between Western countries and the government of Iran, on the nuclear issue, conflicts constantly occur. According to representatives of the country, developments are carried out exclusively for peaceful purposes to support the energy program.
When the first international review took place in 1979, the Iranian government froze its nuclear program. After 20 years, the program was resumed again. Later, the UN imposed sanctions to halt the development of the nuclear program and maintain peace in Asia.
9.
- Status of the military nuclear program: Unofficial
- Start of testing
- Completion of tests: probably 1979
- Nuclear potential: up to 400 warheads
- Test Ban Treaty (CTBT Resolution): ratified
So far, Israel has unofficial status as the owner of nuclear weapons. Presumably the first and last tests were carried out in 1979. Israel has all the methods and technologies with which nuclear bombs can be delivered anywhere in the world. In 1950, engineers built the first reactor, and ten years later the first weapon.
So far, Israel has not developed a nuclear program, although many European countries actively support him. Previously there was information that mini-bombs had been created that could be installed even in small suitcases for transportation. According to some documents, neutron bombs are also available.
8. North Korea
- Status of the military nuclear program: Official
- Start of testing: October 9, 2006
- Completion of tests: January 6, 2016
- Nuclear potential: approximately 20 warheads
- Test Ban Treaty (CTBT Resolution): not ratified
This country has the official status of a nuclear power. The test was carried out in 2006, and the last tests were carried out in 2009. What is noteworthy is that this country has not signed a corresponding agreement with the world community on containment nuclear threat. Availability of a large arsenal of weapons mass destruction allows us to talk about this country as a strong nuclear power. There are several working nuclear reactors.
North Korea has several successful tests, information about which was obtained after careful seismic analysis. The peculiarity of North Korea is its aggressive foreign policy and not recognizing a number of rules and international standards, which allows it to be considered one of the strongest nuclear countries in the world. North Korea tested a ballistic missile in 2016 medium range, capable of carrying a nuclear charge, which caused serious fears of the world superpowers. After this, even tougher economic sanctions were applied to the country, designed to contain North Korea's nuclear program.
7.
- Status of the military nuclear program: Official
- Start of testing: May 28, 1998
- Completion of tests: May 30, 1998
- Nuclear potential: up to 90 warheads
- Test Ban Treaty (CTBT Resolution): not ratified
In the ranking of the strongest and most powerful nuclear powers in the world, Pakistan is in seventh position. The first tests were carried out in the late 90s. The government did not sign the corresponding agreement.
The country had to restart its nuclear program to respond to India's tests. It is this situation that is key in the decision of the Pakistani authorities to create nuclear weapons and thus protect themselves from possible military aggression from outside. A considerable amount of time and money was spent on this program. Ultimately, the country justified all the costs and was able to achieve a positive effect.
Development first began in the middle of the last century, but later one of the presidents curtailed the nuclear program. It was reported that if the situation escalates, it will be possible to purchase weapons from other countries rather than create their own.
6.
- Status of the military nuclear program: Official
- Start of testing: 1974
- Completion of tests: 1998
- Nuclear potential: up to 95 warheads
- Test Ban Treaty (CTBT Resolution): not ratified
India tested nuclear weapons for the first time in 1974. IN last time tests were carried out in 1998. The country has many warheads in its arsenal that can be delivered anywhere in the world. In addition, India has a submarine fleet capable of carrying nuclear weapons.
After the latest tests, sanctions were imposed against India by Japan, the United States, as well as many other countries in the Western world.
5. China
- Status of the military nuclear program: Official
- Start of testing: 1964
- Completion of tests: 1964
- Nuclear potential: up to 240 warheads
- Test Ban Treaty (CTBT Resolution): ratified
The first tests were carried out in 1964. The last time a launch was carried out was in 1996. Several hundred units of deadly nuclear weapons are a guarantor of the country's security. signed by the government international treaty on nuclear weapons. In 1964, the first nuclear bomb was tested. Three years later, in 1967, tests were carried out again, but this time a hydrogen bomb was used.
It is noteworthy that China is the only nuclear state, which gave guarantees to those countries that do not have nuclear weapons. There is a special document in which all guarantees are confirmed and apply to many countries of the world.
4.
- Status of the military nuclear program: Official
- Start of testing: 1960
- Completion of tests: 1995
- Nuclear potential: more than 300 warheads
- Test Ban Treaty (CTBT Resolution): signed
France is definitely included in the ranking of the most powerful and powerful nuclear powers in the world. The first tests were made in 1960. The country has signed and fully ratified a treaty that prohibits any testing.
The first developments began after World War II, but the weapon was created only in 1958. Two years later, tests were carried out, which made it possible to verify the quality and reliability of the created arsenal. France has several hundred nuclear weapons.
3.
- Status of the military nuclear program: Official
- Start of testing: 1952
- Completion of tests: 1991
- Nuclear potential: at least 225 warheads
- Test Ban Treaty (CTBT Resolution): signed
The first tests were carried out in the middle of the last century. A last test it was in 1991. The arsenal contains more than two hundred nuclear weapons. The UK has signed and ratified the Nuclear Weapons Treaty. New technologies and developments allowed us to enter the top three among the most powerful nuclear powers in the world 2015 of the year.
They maintain mutual cooperation with many countries, including the United States, regarding defense and peace. Additionally, the secret services of both countries constantly exchange big amount classified information, which is used solely for security purposes.
2. Russia
- Status of the military nuclear program: Official
- Start of testing: 1949
- Completion of tests: 1990
- Nuclear potential: 2,825 warheads
- Test Ban Treaty (CTBT Resolution): signed
The official launch of the first bomb took place in 1949. The last time tests were carried out was in 1990. There are slightly less than three thousand nuclear weapons in storage.
Exactly Soviet Union became the second country after the United States to launch nuclear weapons. After the first test, several hundred additional tests and checks were carried out using new developments and technologies. On this moment Russia is in second position in the ranking, with the world's most powerful nuclear powers. The correct budget allocation policy and the use of our own developments allowed us to occupy such a high position.
At the moment, one of the bombs is the heaviest of all existing ones. The charge was planned for one hundred thousand kilotons, but it was decided to use half as much because there was a possibility of a fallout large quantity precipitation. And it is worth considering the fact that Russia has the technology to produce hydrogen bombs.
1. USA
- Status of the military nuclear program: Official
- Start of testing: 1945
- Completion of tests: 1992
- Nuclear potential: 5,113 warheads
- Test Ban Treaty (CTBT Resolution): ratified
Many people know that the first launch of a nuclear weapon was carried out in 1945, and the last test in 1992. Total There are more than five thousand weapons in the arsenal.
Over the course of its existence, more than a thousand different tests have been carried out. This allows us to say that the United States is the most powerful nuclear power in the world on given time. Intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) are available that can deliver a nuclear weapon to a distance of 13,000 km. It is also worth noting that the United States of America has a year of surpassing its competitors in many quantitative and qualitative characteristics.
Information about several dozen facilities that are key to the development of the nuclear program is kept in the strictest secrecy.
Recent world events have generated interest in the world's nuclear powers. How many countries have nuclear weapons in 2018 - 2019? Everyone knows that the USA and Russia have the most powerful weapons in the world, and about their confrontation. In 1945, America used the atomic bomb for the first time, dropping it on the cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in Japan. The global community was horrified by the power and consequences. Countries, represented by their leaders, consider such weapons to be a guarantee of security and sovereignty. Such a country will be considered and feared.
List of nuclear powers in the world for 2019
The powers that have such weapons in their arsenal are members of the so-called “Nuclear Club”. Intimidation and world domination- these are the reasons why research and production are carried out atomic weapons.
USA
- First nuclear bomb test - 1945
- Latest - 1992
It ranks 1st in the number of warheads among nuclear powers. In 1945, the world's first nuclear explosion was carried out with the first Trinity bomb. In addition to a large number of warheads, the United States has missiles with a range of 13,000 km, which can deliver nuclear weapons to this distance.
Russia
- First tested a nuclear bomb in 1949 at the Semipalatinsk test site
- The last one was in 1990.
Russia is the rightful successor to the USSR and a power with nuclear weapons. And for the first time the country exploded a nuclear bomb in 1949, and by 1990 there were approximately 715 tests in total. Tsar Bomba - that's what they call the most powerful thermonuclear bomb in the world. Its capacity is 58.6 megatons of TNT. Its development was carried out in the USSR in 1954-1961. under the leadership of I.V. Kurchatov. Tested on October 30, 1961 at the Sukhoi Nos training ground.
In 2014, President V.V. Putin changed military doctrine RF, as a result of which the country reserves the right to use nuclear weapons in response to the use of nuclear or other weapons of mass destruction against it or its allies, as well as any other, if the very existence of the state is threatened.
As of 2017, Russia has in its arsenal launchers missile systems intercontinental ballistic missiles capable of carrying nuclear combat missiles(Topol-M, YaRS). Navy The Russian Armed Forces have submarines with ballistic missiles. Air Force have strategic bombers long-range aviation. The Russian Federation is rightfully considered one of the leaders among the powers possessing nuclear weapons, and one of the technologically advanced ones.
Great Britain
USA's best friend.
- First tested an atomic bomb in 1952.
- Last test: 1991
Officially joined nuclear club. The US and UK are long-time partners and cooperate on nuclear issue since 1958, when a mutual defense treaty was signed between the countries. The country does not seek to reduce nuclear weapons, but also does not increase their production in view of the policy of containing neighboring states and aggressors. The number of warheads in stock is not disclosed.
France
- In 1960, she conducted the first test.
- The last time was in 1995.
The first explosion took place in Algeria. Thermonuclear explosion was tested in 1968 on Mururoa Atoll in the southern part Pacific Ocean and since then more than 200 tests of weapons of mass destruction. The power strove for its independence and began to officially possess lethal weapons.
China
- First test - 1964
- Latest - 1996
The state has officially stated that it will not be the first to use nuclear weapons, and also guarantees not to use them against countries that do not have lethal weapons.
India
- First nuclear bomb test - 1974
- The last one was 1998.
It officially recognized the presence of nuclear weapons only in 1998 after successful underground explosions at the Pokharan test site.
Pakistan
- Tested the weapon for the first time - May 28, 1998.
- Last time - May 30, 1998
In response to nuclear weapons explosions in India, he conducted a series of underground tests in 1998.
North Korea
- 2006 - first explosion
- 2016 is the last one.
In 2005, the leadership of the DPRK announced the creation dangerous bomb and in 2006 held it for the first time underground test. The second explosion was carried out in 2009. And in 2012 it officially declared itself a nuclear power. IN last years The situation on the Korean peninsula has worsened and North Korea periodically threatens the United States nuclear bomb, if it continues to interfere in the conflict with South Korea.
Israel
- allegedly tested a nuclear warhead in 1979.
The country is not officially the owner nuclear weapons. The state neither denies nor confirms the presence of nuclear weapons. But there is evidence that Israel has such warheads.
Iran
This power global community accuses of creating nuclear weapons, but the state declares that it does not possess such weapons and does not intend to produce them. Research was carried out only for peaceful purposes, and that scientists have mastered the entire cycle of uranium enrichment and only for peaceful purposes.
South Africa
The state possessed nuclear weapons in the form of missiles, but voluntarily destroyed them. There is information that Israel provided assistance in creating bombs
History of origin
The creation of a deadly bomb began in 1898, when the spouses Pierre and Marie Suladovskaya-Curie discovered that some substance was released in uranium great amount energy. Subsequently, Ernest Rutherford studied the atomic nucleus, and his colleagues Ernest Walton and John Cockcroft split the atomic nucleus for the first time in 1932. And in 1934, Leo Szilard patented a nuclear bomb.
Nuclear (or atomic) weapons are the presence of everything nuclear arsenal, its transportation means, as well as hardware control. Such weapons are classified as weapons of mass destruction - weapons of mass destruction. The explosive action of the so-called “rusty death” weapon is based on the principle of using some of the qualities possessed by nuclear energy released as a result of a nuclear or thermonuclear reaction.
Types of nuclear weapons
Everything available at globe Nuclear weapons can be divided into two types:
- Atomic weapons are single-phase type explosive mechanisms. During the fission of heavy nuclei of plutonium or uranium 235, energy is released;
- Thermonuclear weapon is an explosive mechanism with a two-phase type. During the impact of the first phase, the release of energy occurs due to the fission of heavy nuclei. During the operation of the second phase, a phase with thermonuclear fusion is connected to fission reactions. In the process of proportional composition of reactions, the types of these weapons are determined.
From the history of the emergence of nuclear weapons
In 1889 married couple Curie committed in scientific world grand opening. They discovered a hitherto unknown substance in a piece of uranium that released a colossal amount of energy.
After this discovery, events developed as follows. E. Rutherford studied the basic properties of atoms. E. Walton and D. Cockroft were the first in the world to carry out the splitting of the atomic nucleus. And already in 1934, scientist Leo Szilard registered a patent for the creation of an atomic bomb.
The purpose for which atomic weapons were created is very trivial - world domination, with the intimidation and destruction of one’s enemies. So, when the Second was already underway World War, scientists in Germany, the Soviet Union and the United States were studying scientific research and nuclear weapons development. These three largest and most powerful states, actively participating in hostilities, attempted to achieve victory at any cost. Moreover, if at that time they had managed to use these weapons as key factor in victory, then it could be used more than once in other military conflicts.
Nuclear powers of the world for 2018
The states that currently possess nuclear weapons are secretly called the Nuclear Club.
The following are considered legitimate within the international legal framework:
- United States of America (USA);
- Russia (which received nuclear weapons from the USSR after its collapse);
- France;
- Great Britain;
- China.
The following are considered illegitimate:
- India;
- North Korea;
- Pakistan.
There is another state - Israel. Officially, it does not have its own nuclear weapons. However, the world community is of the opinion that Israel should take its place in the Nuclear Club.
However, it is possible that there may be other participants on this list. Many world states had nuclear programs, but some of them gave up the idea later, and some are still working on them to this day. In some states, such weapons are supplied by other countries, for example, the United States. The exact number of weapons and how many nuclear powers own these weapons in the world is not known. However, approximately twenty and a half thousand nuclear warheads dispersed throughout the globe.
In 1968, they signed the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons. Later in 1986 they signed the Nuclear Test Ban Treaty. However, not all states decided to sign and ratify (legalize) these documents. Thus, the threat to the world is still real. Moreover, no matter how strange it may sound, at present the presence of nuclear weapons is a guarantee of peace, a deterrent that can protect against aggression, which is why many states are so eager to acquire them.
United States Arsenal
Today, the United States has an arsenal of 1,654 warheads. The United States is armed with bombs, warheads, and shells. All this is used in military aviation, V submarine fleet, as well as in artillery.
At the end of World War II, the United States produced over sixty-six thousand bombs with warheads, but already in 1997 the production of new types of nuclear weapons was completely stopped. By 2010, the United States arsenal consisted of more than five thousand nuclear weapons. Since 2013, their number has decreased to 1,654 units according to the project, which involved a decrease nuclear potential.
As the unofficial world leader, the United States has the status of a nuclear power and, according to the 1968 treaty, as part of five states, it legitimately possesses nuclear weapons.
Russia (former USSR) is the second nuclear power
Russia currently has 1,480 warheads and 367 nuclear delivery vehicles. This ammunition is intended for use missile forces, sea strategic forces And strategic aviation. For last decade Russia's military nuclear stockpile decreased significantly, by 12% per year. Due to the signing of an agreement on mutual disarmament, by 2012 it was supposed to decrease by 2/3.
Today, the Russian Federation, as the successor to the USSR, is one of the main members of the 1968 agreements on nuclear weapons and possesses them legally. In the conditions of modern global political and economic situation there is a confrontation between Russia and the United States European states. However, with such a serious arsenal, you can defend your independent positions on geopolitical issues.
French nuclear potential
France currently has approximately 300 strategic warheads, as well as approximately 60 air-launched tactical multiprocessors. All this can be used by submarines and aircraft. France long time had to strive to be independent in matters own weapons. She was developing her own supercomputer and conducting nuclear tests until 1998. France was no longer involved in nuclear weapons.
British nuclear capability
The UK has 225 nuclear warheads. Of these, over 160 are in combat readiness and are located on submarines. Accurate information about weapons british army no one owns it. They do not disclose the exact size of their nuclear arsenal. The UK has no desire to increase its nuclear stockpile, nor to reduce it. It is guided by a policy of deterring allied and neutral states from using these weapons.
Chinese nuclear potential
According to American experts, the Chinese have approximately 240 warheads. Although according to official data, the Chinese military has approximately 40 intercontinental missiles, which are controlled by artillery and submariners. In addition, the Chinese army has approximately 1,000 missiles short range.
Chinese authorities do not disclose precise information about their arsenal. They state that their nuclear weapons are expected to be maintained at the lowest level that is safe. Moreover, the Chinese authorities say that they will not be the first to use nuclear weapons, and in relation to non-nuclear states they will not use them at all. Such statements are only welcomed by the international community.
Indian nuclear potential
According to some estimates, India does not officially have nuclear weapons. India currently has approximately 30 nuclear warheads in its arsenal, as well as enough materials to make 90 more.
In addition, the Indian Army has short-range missiles, medium-range ballistic missiles, extended range. Being an illegal possessor of atomic weapons, the Indian authorities do not officially declare their nuclear policy, this causes negative reactions in the world community.
Pakistani nuclear potential
It is known from unofficial sources that the Pakistani army has almost 200 nuclear warheads. There is no exact information about the types of their weapons. The world community reacted to nuclear tests as harshly as possible. Pakistan was subjected to economic sanctions almost all major world states. The exception was Saudi Arabia, which supplied the state with approximately fifty thousand barrels of oil per day.
North Korea is a new generation nuclear power
North Korea is a state that officially possesses nuclear weapons, and in this regard, in 2012, it amended its Constitution. The Democratic People's Republic of Korea possesses single-stage medium-range missiles, mobile complex"Musudan."
Reaction international community on the creation and testing of nuclear weapons was extremely negative. The lengthy six-party negotiations are still ongoing, and the state is subject to an economic embargo. However, the North Korean authorities are in no hurry to abandon the creation of their nuclear shield.
Should we give up nuclear weapons?
Nuclear weapons are one of the most terrible types of destruction of population and economic potential hostile state. This is a weapon that destroys everything in its path. Aware of the seriousness of the presence of such weapons, the governments of many states (especially the “Nuclear Club”) are taking a wide variety of measures to reduce the number of these weapons, as well as guarantees for their non-use.
IN recent months North Korea and the United States are actively exchanging threats to destroy each other. Since both countries have nuclear arsenals, the world is closely monitoring the situation. On the Day of the Struggle for the Complete Elimination of Nuclear Weapons, we decided to remind you who has them and in what quantities. Today, it is officially known that eight countries that form the so-called Nuclear Club have such weapons.
Who exactly has nuclear weapons?
The first and only state to use nuclear weapons against another country is USA. In August 1945, during World War II, the United States dropped nuclear bombs on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The attack killed more than 200 thousand people.
Year of first test: 1945
Carriers nuclear charges: submarines, ballistic missiles and bombers
Number of warheads: 6800, including 1800 deployed (ready for use)
Russia has the greatest nuclear stockpile. After the collapse of the Union, Russia became the only heir to the nuclear arsenal.
Year of first test: 1949
Nuclear charge carriers: submarines, missile systems, heavy bombers, in the future - nuclear trains
Number of warheads: 7,000, including 1,950 deployed (ready for use)
Great Britain is the only country that has not conducted a single test on its territory. The country has 4 submarines with nuclear warheads; other types of troops were disbanded by 1998.
Year of first test: 1952
Nuclear charge carriers: submarines
Number of warheads: 215, including 120 deployed (ready for use)
France conducted ground tests of a nuclear charge in Algeria, where it built a test site for this.
Year of first test: 1960
Nuclear charge carriers: submarines and fighter-bombers
Number of warheads: 300, including 280 deployed (ready for use)
China tests weapons only on its territory. China has pledged not to be the first to use nuclear weapons. China was suspected of transferring nuclear weapons technology to Pakistan.
Year of first test: 1964
Nuclear charge carriers: ballistic launch vehicles, submarines and strategic bombers
Number of warheads: 270 (in reserve)
India announced the possession of nuclear weapons in 1998. In the Indian Air Force, nuclear weapons carriers can be French and Russian tactical fighters.
Year of first test: 1974
Nuclear charge carriers: short, medium and extended range missiles
Number of warheads: 120−130 (in reserve)
Pakistan tested its weapons in response to Indian actions. The reaction to the emergence of nuclear weapons in the country was global sanctions. Recently ex-president Pakistan's Pervez Musharraf said Pakistan considered launching a nuclear attack on India in 2002. Bombs can be delivered by fighter-bombers.
Year of first test: 1998
Number of warheads: 130−140 (in reserve)
DPRK announced the development of nuclear weapons in 2005, and conducted its first test in 2006. In 2012, the country declared itself a nuclear power and made corresponding amendments to the Constitution. IN Lately North Korea conducts a lot of tests - the country launches intercontinental ballistic missiles and threatens the United States nuclear strike By American island Guam, which is located 4 thousand km from the DPRK.
Year of first test: 2006
Nuclear charge carriers: nuclear bombs and missiles
Number of warheads: 10−20 (in reserve)
These 8 countries openly declare the presence of weapons, as well as the tests being carried out. The so-called “old” nuclear powers (USA, Russia, UK, France and China) signed the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, while the “young” nuclear powers - India and Pakistan refused to sign the document. North Korea first ratified the agreement and then withdrew its signature.
Who can develop nuclear weapons now?
The main "suspect" is Israel. Experts believe Israel has nuclear weapons own production from the late 1960s - early 1970s. There were also opinions that the country conducted joint tests with South Africa. According to the Stockholm Peace Research Institute, Israel has about 80 nuclear warheads as of 2017. The country can use fighter-bombers and submarines to deliver nuclear weapons.
Suspicions that Iraq is developing weapons of mass destruction, was one of the reasons for the invasion of the country by American and British troops (recall the famous speech of US Secretary of State Colin Powell at the UN in 2003, in which he stated that Iraq was working on programs to create biological and chemical weapons and possesses two of the three necessary components for the production of nuclear weapons. — Approx. TUT.BY). Later, the US and UK admitted that there were insufficient grounds for the 2003 invasion.
Was under international sanctions for 10 years Iran due to the resumption of the uranium enrichment program in the country under President Ahmadinejad. In 2015, Iran and six international mediators concluded the so-called “nuclear deal” - sanctions were lifted, and Iran pledged to limit its nuclear activities only a “peaceful atom”, putting it under international control. With Donald Trump coming to power in the United States, sanctions were again introduced against Iran. Tehran, meanwhile, began testing ballistic missiles.
Myanmar in recent years, it has also been suspected of attempting to create nuclear weapons; it was reported that technology was exported to the country by North Korea. According to experts, Myanmar lacks the technical and financial capabilities to develop weapons.
IN different years many states were suspected of seeking or capable of creating nuclear weapons - Algeria, Argentina, Brazil, Egypt, Libya, Mexico, Romania, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Taiwan, Sweden. But the transition from a peaceful atom to a non-peaceful one either was not proven, or the countries curtailed their programs.
Which countries allowed to store nuclear bombs and which refused?
Some European countries store US warheads. According to the Federation of American Scientists (FAS) in 2016, 150-200 US nuclear bombs are stored in underground storage facilities in Europe and Turkey. Countries have aircraft capable of delivering charges to intended targets.
Bombs are stored at air bases in Germany(Büchel, more than 20 pieces), Italy(Aviano and Gedi, 70−110 pieces), Belgium(Kleine Brogel, 10−20 pieces), the Netherlands(Volkel, 10−20 pieces) and Turkey(Incirlik, 50−90 pieces).
In 2015, it was reported that the Americans would deploy the latest B61-12 atomic bombs at a base in Germany, and American instructors would teach how to work with data nuclear weapons pilots of the Polish and Baltic air forces.
The United States recently announced that it was negotiating the deployment of its nuclear weapons in South Korea, where they were stored until 1991.
Four countries voluntarily renounced nuclear weapons on their territory, including Belarus.
After the collapse of the USSR, Ukraine and Kazakhstan were in third and fourth place in the world in terms of the number of nuclear arsenals in the world. The countries agreed to the withdrawal of weapons to Russia under international security guarantees. Kazakhstan transferred strategic bombers to Russia, and sold uranium to the United States. In 2008, the country's President Nursultan Nazarbayev was nominated for Nobel Prize world for its contribution to the non-proliferation of nuclear weapons.
Ukraine in recent years there has been talk of restoring nuclear status countries. In 2016, the Verkhovna Rada proposed repealing the law “On Ukraine’s accession to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons.” Previously Secretary of the Council national security Ukraine's Alexander Turchynov stated that Kyiv is ready to use available resources to create effective weapons.
IN Belarus the withdrawal of nuclear weapons was completed in November 1996. Subsequently, President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko more than once called this decision the most serious mistake. In his opinion, “if there were nuclear weapons left in the country, they would be talking to us differently now.”
South Africa is the only country that independently produced nuclear weapons, and after the fall of the apartheid regime voluntarily abandoned them.
Nuclear Club list of countries
Russia
- Most of atomic weapons Russia received after the collapse of the USSR, when at military bases of the former Soviet republics Mass disarmament and removal of nuclear warheads to Russia were carried out.
- Officially, the country has a nuclear resource of 7,000 warheads and ranks first in the world in terms of weapons, of which 1,950 are deployed.
- The former Soviet Union conducted its first test in 1949 with a ground launch of an RDS-1 rocket from the Semipalatinsk test site in Kazakhstan.
- The Russian position regarding nuclear weapons is to use them in response to a similar attack. Or in case of attacks conventional weapons if it threatens the existence of the country.
USA
- The incident of two missiles dropped on two Japanese cities in 1945 is the first and only example of a live atomic attack. Thus, the United States became the first country to implement nuclear explosion. Today it is also the country with the most strong army in the world. Official estimates report 6,800 active units, with 1,800 deployed in combat status.
- The last US nuclear test was carried out in 1992. The US takes the position that it has sufficient weapons for its own defense and defense allied states from attack.
France
- After World War II, the country did not pursue the goal of developing its own weapons mass destruction. However, after Vietnam War and the loss of its colonies in Indochina, the country's government reconsidered its views, and since 1960 it conducted nuclear tests, first in Algeria, and then on two uninhabited coral islands in French Polynesia.
- In total, the country conducted 210 tests, the most powerful of which were the Canopus in 1968 and the Unicorn in 1970. There is information about the presence of 300 nuclear warheads, 280 of which are located on deployed carriers.
- The scale of the global armed confrontation clearly demonstrated that the longer French government will ignore peace initiatives to curb weapons, the better for France. Even France acceded to the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty proposed by the UN in 1996 only in 1998.
China
- China. China conducted its first test of an atomic weapon, codenamed “596,” in 1964, opening the way to becoming one of the five residents of the Nuclear Club.
- Modern China has 270 warheads in storage. Since 2011, the country has adopted a policy of minimal weapons, which will be used only in case of danger. And the developments of Chinese military scientists are in no way behind the leaders in weapons, Russia and the United States, and since 2011 they have presented to the world four new modifications of ballistic weapons with the ability to load them with nuclear warheads.
- There is a joke that China is based on the number of its compatriots, who make up the largest diaspora in the world, when talking about the “minimum necessary” number of combat units.
Great Britain
- Great Britain, like a true lady, even though it is one of the leading Five nuclear powers, and such obscenity as atomic tests on my own territory, did not practice. All tests were carried out away from British lands, in Australia and in the Pacific Ocean.
- She began her nuclear career in 1952 with the activation of a nuclear bomb with a yield of more than 25 kilotons of TNT on board the frigate Plym, anchored near the Pacific islands of Montebello. In 1991, testing was stopped. Officially, the country has 215 charges, of which 180 are located on deployed carriers.
- The UK actively opposes the use of nuclear ballistic missiles, although there was a precedent in 2015, when Prime Minister David Cameron encouraged international community message that the country, if desired, can demonstrate the launch of a couple of charges. The minister did not specify in which direction the nuclear greeting would fly.
Young nuclear powers
Pakistan
- Pakistan. The common border with India and Pakistan prevents them from signing the Non-Proliferation Treaty. In 1965, the country's foreign minister said that Pakistan would be ready to begin developing its own nuclear weapons if neighboring India began to do so. His determination was so serious that he promised to put the entire country on bread and water for the sake of protection from armed provocations of India.
- Development of explosive devices has been ongoing for a long time, with variable funding and construction of facilities since 1972. The country conducted its first tests in 1998 at the Chagai training ground. There are about 120-130 nuclear warheads in storage in the country.
- The appearance of a new player on nuclear market forced many partner countries to impose a ban on the import of Pakistani goods into their territory, which could greatly undermine the country's economy. Fortunately for Pakistan, it had a number of unofficial sponsors who provided funds for nuclear testing. The largest revenues were oil from Saudi Arabia, imported into the country daily at 50 thousand barrels.
India
- The homeland of the most cheerful films was pushed to participate in the nuclear race by its proximity to China and Pakistan. And if China has long been in the position of superpowers and does not pay attention to India, and does not particularly oppress permanent job over its potential and refusal to sign the Non-Proliferation Treaty.
- Nuclear power prevented India from venturing out into the open from the very beginning, so the first test, codenamed “Smiling Buddha” in 1974, was carried out secretly, underground. All developments were so classified that the researchers even notified their own Minister of Defense about the tests at the last moment.
- Officially, India admitted that yes, we sin, we have charges, only in the late 1990s. According to modern data, there are 110-120 units in storage in the country.
North Korea
- North Korea. The favorite move of the United States - “showing strength” as an argument in negotiations - was very disliked by the DPRK government back in the mid-1950s. At that time, the States actively intervened in Korean War, allowing the atomic bombing of Pyongyang. The DPRK learned its lesson and set a course for militarizing the country.
- Together with an army that is now the fifth largest in the world, Pyongyang is conducting nuclear research, which until 2017 were not particularly interesting to the world, since they took place under the auspices of space exploration, and relatively peacefully. Sometimes the neighboring lands shook South Korea from medium-sized earthquakes of unknown nature, that’s all the trouble.
- At the beginning of 2017, the “false” news in the media that the United States was sending its aircraft carriers to meaningless promenades off the Korean shores left a residue, and the DPRK, without much concealment, conducted six nuclear tests. Today the country has 10 nuclear units in storage.
- How many other countries are conducting research on developing nuclear weapons is unknown. To be continued.
Suspicions of nuclear weapons storage
There are several known countries suspected of storing nuclear weapons:
- Israel, like the old and wise Reve, is in no hurry to lay his cards on the table, but does not directly deny the presence of nuclear weapons. The “Non-Proliferation Treaty” has also not been signed, and it’s more invigorating than the morning snow. And all the world has is just rumors about nuclear tests, which the Promised One allegedly carried out since 1979 together with South Africa in the South Atlantic and the presence of 80 nuclear warheads in storage.
- Iraq, according to unverified data, has been storing an unknown number of nuclear weapons for an unknown number of years. “Simply because it can,” they said in the United States, and at the beginning of the 2000s, together with Great Britain, they sent troops into the country. Later they apologized heartily that they were “mistaken.” We didn't expect anything else, gentlemen.
- Came under the same suspicions Iran, due to testing the “peaceful atom” for energy needs. This became the reason to impose sanctions on the country for 10 years. In 2015, Iran pledged to report on uranium enrichment research, and the country was released from sanctions.
Four countries cleared themselves of all suspicion by officially refusing to participate “in these races of yours.” Belarus, Kazakhstan and Ukraine transferred all their capacities to Russia with the collapse of the USSR, although the President of Belarus A. Lukashenko sometimes sighs with a hint of nostalgia that “If only there were any weapons left, they would talk to us differently.” And South Africa, at least once, participated in the development nuclear capacities, openly left the race and lives quietly.
Partly due to internal contradictions political forces, who opposed nuclear policy, partly due to lack of necessity. One way or another, some have transferred all power to the cultivation of the “peaceful atom”, and some have abandoned nuclear potential altogether (like Taiwan, after the accident at Chernobyl nuclear power plant in Ukraine).
List of nuclear powers in the world for 2018
The powers that have such weapons in their arsenal are members of the so-called “Nuclear Club”. Intimidation and world domination are the reasons for the research and production of atomic weapons.
USA
- First nuclear bomb test - 1945
- The last one was 1992.
It ranks 1st in the number of warheads among nuclear powers. In 1945, the world's first nuclear explosion was carried out with the first Trinity bomb. In addition to a large number of warheads, the United States has missiles with a range of 13,000 km, which can deliver nuclear weapons to this distance.
Russia
- First tested a nuclear bomb in 1949 at the Semipalatinsk test site
- The last one was in 1990.
Russia is the rightful successor to the USSR and a power with nuclear weapons. And for the first time the country exploded a nuclear bomb in 1949, and by 1990 there were approximately 715 tests in total. The Tsar Bomba is the name given to the most powerful thermonuclear bomb in the world. Its capacity is 58.6 megatons of TNT. Its development was carried out in the USSR in 1954-1961. under the leadership of I.V. Kurchatov. Tested on October 30, 1961 at the Sukhoi Nos training ground.
In 2014, President V.V. Putin changed the military doctrine of the Russian Federation, as a result of which the country reserves the right to use nuclear weapons in response to the use of nuclear or other weapons of mass destruction against it or its allies, as well as any other, if the the very existence of the state.
As of 2017, Russia in its arsenal has launchers of intercontinental ballistic missile systems capable of carrying nuclear combat missiles (Topol-M, YaRS). The Russian Navy has ballistic missile submarines. The air force has long-range strategic bombers. The Russian Federation is rightfully considered one of the leaders among the powers possessing nuclear weapons, and one of the technologically advanced ones.
Great Britain
USA's best friend.
- First tested an atomic bomb in 1952.
- Last test: 1991
Officially joined the nuclear club. The US and UK are long-standing partners and have been cooperating on nuclear issues since 1958, when the countries signed a mutual defense treaty. The country does not seek to reduce nuclear weapons, but also does not increase their production in view of the policy of containing neighboring states and aggressors. The number of warheads in stock is not disclosed.
France
- In 1960, she conducted the first test.
- The last time was in 1995.
The first explosion took place in Algeria. A thermonuclear explosion was tested in 1968 at Mururoa Atoll in the South Pacific and since then there have been more than 200 tests of weapons of mass destruction. The power strove for its independence and began to officially possess deadly weapons.
China
- First test - 1964
- Latest - 1996
The state has officially stated that it will not be the first to use nuclear weapons, and also guarantees not to use them against countries that do not have lethal weapons.
India
- First nuclear bomb test - 1974
- The last one was 1998.
It officially recognized the presence of nuclear weapons only in 1998 after successful underground explosions at the Pokharan test site.
Pakistan
- Tested a weapon for the first time - May 28, 1998.
- Last time: May 30, 1998
In response to nuclear weapons explosions in India, he conducted a series of underground tests in 1998.
North Korea
- 2006 - first explosion
- 2016 is the last one.
In 2005, the leadership of the DPRK announced the creation of a dangerous bomb and in 2006 it conducted its first underground test. The second explosion was carried out in 2009. And in 2012 it officially declared itself a nuclear power. In recent years, the situation on the Korean Peninsula has worsened and North Korea periodically threatens the United States with a nuclear bomb if it continues to interfere in the conflict with South Korea.
Israel
- allegedly tested a nuclear warhead in 1979.
The country does not officially have nuclear weapons. The state neither denies nor confirms the presence of nuclear weapons. But there is evidence that Israel has such warheads.
Iran
The world community accuses this power of creating nuclear weapons, but the state declares that it does not possess such weapons and does not intend to produce them. Research was carried out only for peaceful purposes, and that scientists have mastered the entire cycle of uranium enrichment and only for peaceful purposes.
South Africa
The state possessed nuclear weapons in the form of missiles, but voluntarily destroyed them. There is information that Israel provided assistance in creating bombs
History of origin
The creation of a deadly bomb began in 1898, when the spouses Pierre and Marie Suladovskaya-Curie discovered that some substance in uranium releases a huge amount of energy. Subsequently, Ernest Rutherford studied the atomic nucleus, and his colleagues Ernest Walton and John Cockcroft split the atomic nucleus for the first time in 1932. And in 1934, Leo Szilard patented a nuclear bomb.
Types of nuclear weapons
- Atomic bomb - energy release occurs due to nuclear fission
- Hydrogen (thermonuclear) - explosion energy occurs as a result of first nuclear fission, and then nuclear fusion.
At the core nuclear explosion damage occurs due to mechanical action shock wave, thermal exposure to light waves, radioactive exposure and radioactive contamination.
As a result of the shock wave, unprotected people can suffer injuries and concussions. Mechanical damage, depending on the power, will cause destruction to buildings and houses. The light wave can cause burns on the body and burns to the retina of the eyes. Fires occur as a result of the thermal effects of light waves. Radioactive contamination and radiation sickness are the result of radioactive exposure.