Satellite images of a military compound in the desert of Xinjiang in northwest China have raised new concerns that Beijing is working to improve its ability to carry out nuclear strikes.
According to experts cited by Reuters, the site includes around 80 launch facilities, additional military infrastructure and bunkers. The compound is located near silos that store China’s longest-range nuclear missiles, which are capable of reaching the US.
The development points to a significant increase in China’s effort to strengthen its nuclear deterrence and attack capabilities at a time of growing tensions around Taiwan and the wider Pacific region.
A defense analyst from a research institute connected to Taiwan’s Defense Ministry warned that China could consider a nuclear strike against the US and Japan if they intervene in a future conflict over Taiwan, especially in a scenario of escalation or military deadlock.