Prominent conservatives caution that the U.S. is ill-equipped for a nuclear conflict with China, citing an outdated arsenal. A Heritage Foundation video argues that tactical nuclear capabilities have been neglected, with China’s nuclear stockpile expected to surpass 1,000 warheads by 2030. Experts emphasize the need for modernization and military readiness to deter potential aggressors.

Influential conservatives and lawmakers have expressed their concerns regarding the capability of the United States to engage in a nuclear conflict with China. A video by the Heritage Foundation highlights that the U.S. nuclear arsenal is largely outdated, with the newest weapons dating back nearly 40 years, likening them to a vintage car. Military analysts are assessing potential scenarios, particularly in the event of a Chinese invasion of Taiwan.

The video presents a scenario in which China would deploy a tactical nuclear weapon to target a U.S. Air Force base in Guam, leading to significant casualties. In response, there is a presumption that the U.S. would retaliate in kind; however, experts caution that the U.S. might struggle to execute such countermeasures due to diminishing tactical nuclear capabilities. The production of tactical nuclear weapons, which are designed for targeted destruction, has been largely neglected by U.S. forces.

Since the Cold War’s conclusion, the United States has significantly reduced its nuclear capabilities, signing various arms control agreements and consequently maintaining an arsenal that is approximately 85% smaller than what existed during the conflict’s peak. Key removals include naval and land-based tactical nuclear weapons from Korea and the retirement of the nuclear version of the Tomahawk cruise missile.

Many in Washington echo the sentiment that the focus on the Middle East has detracted from necessary investments in addressing threats from China. Senator Deb Fischer noted how the perception of Russia as a primary threat has shifted due to China’s rapid nuclear expansion, which has seen its stockpile triple in the past five years. Projections indicate that China will enhance its arsenal to over 1,000 warheads by 2030.

Military experts argue that, while China increases its strategic and tactical nuclear capabilities, the U.S. arsenal, with the newest weapons over 35 years old, remains inadequate and outdated, resembling a vehicle intended for retirement decades ago. Representative Chip Roy attributed this deficiency to prolonged military engagements that diverted attention from strategic deterrence in the Indo-Pacific.

Furthermore, China is advancing its nuclear capabilities and anti-ship systems, including hypersonic missiles capable of delivering nuclear payloads to the U.S. homeland with minimal warning. There are calls for the U.S. to modernize its nuclear arsenal and focus on building robust military capabilities that can confidently deter potential aggression from adversaries like China, Russia, and Iran. Experts emphasize the necessity of demonstrating strength in military preparedness to dissuade any thoughts of confrontation from Chinese leaders.

The warnings from conservative lawmakers and military experts underscore a critical need for the modernization of the U.S. nuclear arsenal in light of China’s expanding capabilities. With projections indicating significant growth in China’s nuclear stockpile by 2030, there is an urgent call for the United States to enhance its tactical nuclear capabilities while ensuring a modernized military force. The ongoing focus on international threats emphasizes the importance of establishing robust deterrents to maintain global stability and protect national interests.

Original Source: www.foxnews.com

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