⚛️ China Rewrites Nuclear Rules While Warning Washington

China’s new white paper on arms control is far more than a technical document — it is a political manifesto aimed at reshaping the strategic landscape in which Beijing competes with the United States.

Beijing claims to have conducted only 45 nuclear tests, a modest figure compared to the vast testing programs of the U.S. and Russia. China continues to present its nuclear forces as a “small and effective” arsenal, projecting an image of restraint. Yet behind this balanced tone lies a deep military modernization. Its adoption of a “launch-on-warning” doctrine — characteristic of major nuclear powers — requires a full technological ecosystem of radars, satellites, and mobile missile platforms. This is a quiet but profound transformation designed to ensure China can retaliate instantly if attacked. The message is clear: China will not strike first, but it will strike back decisively.

The most politically charged section of the report targets the American Golden Dome missile-defense initiative championed by Donald Trump, which relies partly on space-based sensors and interceptors. Beijing argues that such a system breaks strategic balance by making the U.S. theoretically immune to retaliation — undermining the logic of nuclear deterrence. Hence the warning: China is prepared to counter the Golden Dome, which it views as a direct threat to its “legitimate security interests.” The tone remains diplomatic, but the intention is unmistakable — if Washington seeks nuclear superiority, Beijing will respond.

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