What's happened
As nuclear and ballistic missile capabilities expand globally, concerns grow over the risk of miscalculation and renewed arms races. Key nations like Russia, China, and North Korea are advancing missile programs, while arms control treaties are unraveling, raising fears of increased conflict potential.
What's behind the headline?
The resurgence of missile development signals a shift towards a more unstable strategic environment. The Cold War-era arms control treaties, once stabilizing, are now largely abandoned, increasing the risk of misperception and escalation. The breakdown of agreements like INF and the suspension of New START diminish transparency and accountability, making it easier for miscalculations to occur. The global multipolar order, with multiple nuclear-armed states pursuing missile capabilities, undermines the deterrence framework that has kept major conflicts at bay for decades. This trajectory suggests that the risk of a nuclear crisis will likely increase, especially if technological advancements like AI are integrated into military systems, further complicating command and control. The story underscores the urgent need for renewed diplomacy and arms control efforts to prevent a return to a more perilous era of conflict.
What the papers say
South China Morning Post highlights the expansion of missile capabilities and the erosion of arms control treaties, emphasizing the destabilizing potential of current developments. Al Jazeera discusses the broader implications of the unraveling arms control framework, including Kazakhstan's stance against nuclear weapons and the human toll of nuclear testing. The Japan Times notes the rising opposition to nuclear weapons among younger generations, reflecting a shift in public sentiment and the importance of nuclear disarmament advocacy. While the SCMP focuses on strategic stability, Al Jazeera provides a human perspective, and Japan Times captures the changing cultural attitudes, together illustrating a complex global landscape of nuclear and missile proliferation.
How we got here
The development of ballistic missile technology has historically been linked to strategic deterrence, especially during the Cold War. Recent actions, such as Russia lifting a missile deployment ban and China testing intercontinental missiles, reflect ongoing modernization. The collapse of arms control agreements like INF and New START further complicates efforts to limit proliferation. Kazakhstan's nuclear disarmament exemplifies a contrasting approach, emphasizing peaceful nuclear energy over weapons.
Go deeper
Common question
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How Are Global Missile Programs Changing the World Order?
As nations expand their missile capabilities, the global balance of power is shifting. Countries like Russia, China, and North Korea are investing heavily in missile technology, raising concerns about new arms races and increased conflict risks. This page explores how these developments are impacting international stability, the fate of arms control treaties, and what it means for the future of global security. Curious about which countries are leading the charge or how these changes could spark conflicts? Keep reading to find out.
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How Are Rising Tensions Over Missile Technology Affecting Global Peace?
As nations expand their missile capabilities and arms control treaties face challenges, concerns about global stability grow. This page explores which countries are most involved, the risks of miscalculation, and what experts say about future conflicts. Understanding these issues is crucial as the world navigates a complex landscape of nuclear and missile proliferation.
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