VII. Pakistani nuclear forces

Chapter:

10. World nuclear forces

Source:

SIPRI Yearbook 2021

Author(s):

Hans M. Kristensen, Matt Korda

It is estimated that Pakistan possessed approximately 165 nuclear warheads as of January 2021, an increase of 5 from the previous year (see table 10.8). The Pakistani Government has never publicly disclosed the size of its nuclear arsenal; the estimate made here is based on analysis of Pakistan’s nuclear posture, previous statements by Western officials, and private conversations with officials. Analysing the number and types of Pakistani warheads and delivery vehicles is fraught with uncertainty, due to limited official public data and widespread exaggerated news stories about nuclear weapons. Pakistan’s nuclear weapon arsenal and fissile material stockpile are likely to continue expanding over the next decade, although projections vary considerably.¹