China's construction of a major nuclear research center, reminiscent of the U.S. National Ignition Facility, has sparked concerns about its accelerating nuclear weapons development. The facility, located in Mianyang, Sichuan province, is believed to be capable of conducting advanced nuclear fusion experiments, potentially leading to advancements in both weapons design and clean energy.
China has constructed a substantial research center potentially accelerating its nuclear weapons development, according to satellite imagery. This development contributes to Beijing's rapid expansion of its nuclear arsenal. Newsweek has reached out to both the Chinese defense and foreign ministries for comment. \The Pentagon stated in its report on Chinese military power last month that the number of Chinese operational nuclear warheads has surged by over 100, exceeding 600.
This increase empowers China to target more U.S. cities, military installations, and leadership positions. The Chinese military refuted the report, asserting that its nuclear weapon development is solely for self-defense. Beijing's foreign ministry claimed that the country has been 'forced' to develop nuclear weapons in response to perceived threats, to dismantle nuclear monopolies, and to avert wars. \Reuters reported on Tuesday the unveiling of this new Chinese nuclear facility in Mianyang, a city in the southwestern Sichuan province. The facility exhibits a design reminiscent of the U.S. National Ignition Facility (NIF) in California. In 2022, the NIF conducted a groundbreaking nuclear fusion experiment where a laser-generated energy output surpassed the laser energy input, paving the way for advancements in defense and clean energy. Decker Eveleth, an analyst with the U.S.-based CNA Corporation, told Reuters that the Chinese research center boasts four laser bays and an experimental bay housing a target chamber where lasers will fuse hydrogen isotopes. Satellite imagery revealed this configuration. Eveleth added that the Chinese experimental bay, encircled by laser bays, is estimated to be 50% larger than the one at the NIF, the world's largest. The Chinese research facility is officially known as the Laser Fusion Major Device Laboratory. \According to Reuters, laser fusion empowers researchers to investigate the workings of such reactions and explore detonations that would conventionally necessitate explosive tests. It also facilitates research into harnessing hydrogen as a future clean power source. Both the U.S. and China are signatories to the 1996 Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty, which prohibits all nuclear explosions, regardless of purpose. Treaty signatories are permitted to conduct 'subcritical' explosive tests, including laser fusion known as inertial confinement fusion, which do not produce nuclear reactions. \William Alberque, a nuclear policy analyst at the U.S.-based Henry L. Stimson Center, stated to Reuters: 'Any country with an NIF-type facility can and probably will be increasing their confidence and improving existing weapons designs, and facilitating the design of future bomb designs without testing .' The Pentagon echoed this sentiment in its Chinese military power report, declaring: 'The PRC is expanding its nuclear warhead production infrastructure. This infrastructure enables the PRC to produce, maintain, and refurbish a greater number of warheads in support of its nuclear stockpile expansion.' \China is anticipated to persist in its expansion and modernization of its nuclear forces. It remains uncertain whether Beijing will reengage in nuclear arms control negotiations with Washington
Defense And Security Science And Technology CHINA NUCLEAR WEAPONS RESEARCH CENTER ARMS RACE NUCLEAR FUSION US PENTAGON LASER FUSION FACILITY INFUSION MILITARY POWER
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Drone Attack Sparks Large Fire at Russian Airbase Housing Nuclear BombersA drone attack on a Russian airbase in Saratov region has resulted in a significant fire. The base houses nuclear-capable bomber aircraft.
Read more »
Drone Attack Triggers Large Fire at Russian Airbase Housing Nuclear BombersA drone attack on a Russian airbase in Saratov region has resulted in a large fire, according to reports. The Engels airbase, home to nuclear-capable bombers, was targeted.
Read more »
Nukes on trucks: US firm advances mobile nuclear reactors for military powerNANO Nuclear Energy expands its microreactor portfolio with a strategic acquisition, bolstering its advanced nuclear technology.
Read more »
US Builds New Chip Facility To Counter China's Growing DominanceThe Biden administration announced a new semiconductor research and development facility in Arizona, aiming to bolster US leadership in the semiconductor sector and counter China's increasing influence.
Read more »
China Builds Barges Capable of Supporting Taiwan InvasionA report reveals China's construction of barges potentially capable of facilitating a Taiwan invasion, raising concerns about escalating tensions between the two nations.
Read more »
China Builds 'D-Day Style' Barges Amid Taiwan TensionsChina is reportedly constructing barges that resemble the World War II 'Mulberry harbours' and could be used in a potential invasion of Taiwan. The barges, spotted at a Guangzhou shipyard, could facilitate the transport of troops and heavy equipment to the island.
Read more »