The Modernization of Chinese Nuclear Forces and Its Impact on Sino-U.S. Relations

Abstract

This article examines China's emerging nuclear capability and its strategic consequences. China will be able to deploy, for the first time, a truly secure second-strike capability in the next decade. This emerging Chinese capability will critically affect the future relationship between China and the United States. The article suggests that the two countries should engage in strategic dialogues to discuss the proper role of nuclear deterrence in their bilateral relationship. This will help prevent a nuclear arms race that will inevitably worsen the security dilemma between the two most important countries of the twenty-first century.

Keywords:

• China
• deterrence
• nuclear power
• United States