The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), in its new annual report, has stated that in South Asia, both Pakistan and India are rapidly expanding their nuclear programs, while 82% of the world’s total nuclear stockpile remains concentrated in Russia and the United States.
According to foreign media reports, the SIPRI report provides a detailed overview of the global nuclear weapons situation, the nuclear competition between Pakistan and India, and the growing risks of conflict worldwide. The report highlights that both South Asian countries are steadily increasing their nuclear capabilities.
As of January 2026, India possessed approximately 190 nuclear warheads, while Pakistan had around 170. According to SIPRI, India follows a “No First Use” nuclear policy, with its primary strategic focus on both China and Pakistan. In contrast, Pakistan maintains a policy of first use if necessary, with its strategic focus solely on India.
The report further states that India possesses Rafale and Mirage fighter jets, long-range Agni-series missiles, and the nuclear-powered submarine INS Arihant. Pakistan, on the other hand, has F-16 and JF-17 fighter jets, Shaheen and Ghori missile systems, and is currently working on enhancing its sea-based nuclear capability.
Globally, the report notes that as of January 2026, nine countries collectively hold 12,187 nuclear warheads. Of these, 9,745 are in military stockpiles, an increase of 130 compared to the previous year. Around 4,012 warheads are deployed on missiles, while approximately 2,150 ballistic missiles are maintained at high operational readiness.
The report adds that Russia and the United States together account for 82% of the world’s nuclear stockpile, with Russia holding 4,380 warheads and the United States 3,700, making them the largest nuclear powers.
Following them are China with 620 warheads, France with 290, the United Kingdom with 225, India with 190, Pakistan with 170, Israel with approximately 90, and North Korea with around 60 warheads.
The report also highlights other major global developments, noting that China’s nuclear arsenal is growing at the fastest rate, with hundreds of missiles added to its expanding missile network. Russia and the United States are facing delays and high costs in developing new missile systems, while the United Kingdom has announced plans to integrate its nuclear aircraft into NATO’s network.
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