China’s Global Times suggested China reconsider the “sufficient” size of their nuclear weapons stockpile to scare off potential attackers. It also said boosting nuclear weapons development to show determination to defend its core national interests must be a “top priority” for the country, such as South China Sea and Taiwan.
Beijing is “slowly increasing” the number of warheads and is currently developing the Dongfeng-41 (DF-41) – a long-range ballistic missile possibly capable of striking any potential target worldwide. However, it is unclear when the new weapon will enter into service.
In South China Sea, while US is not among the claimant states, Washington insist that the area should remain international waters, and routinely sends bombers, warships to the region drawing ire from Beijing.
Also, to counter Chinese "One-China" policy, the US State Department greenlighted submarine technology sales to Taiwan, sparking concerns from China.
Perhaps China improving on its nuke will allow them to gain respect like how Russia has, and it will be interesting to see how this rising global power in Asia makes its mark in the world.
How would US react then?
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Article: https://www.rt.com/news/433904-china-more-nukes-deter-us/