The
threat of nuclear holocaust that hung over humanity since the close
of the Second World War appears to have receeded; but appearences
can be deceiving. As of 1998, thousands of nuclear weapons stand at
the ready with planners in a small number of nations still operating
out of the logic of MADness: to defend the Nation-State the entire
human race must endure the perpetual threat of genocide. But these
weapons, made by human beings, can also be unmade by human beings.
This is the single most important challenge of the early years of
the 21st century.
China
275 operational strategic warheads and 150 operational tactical warheads
France
400 operational strategic warheads, 60 operational tactical warheads
and 50 warheads awaiting dismantlement
Russia
6,240 operational strategic warhead, 4,000 operational tactical warheads,
about 18,000 warheads in reserve or awaiting dismantlement
United
Kingdom
200 operational strategic warheads, 80 operational tactical warheads
(to be retired), and 120 warheads awaiting dismantlement
United States
7,450 operational strategic warheads, 970 operational tactical warheads,
2,300 warheads in reserve, 1,350 awaiting dismantlement.
Estimates
India: 60 to 80 weapons;
Israel: 70 to 125 weapons;
Pakistan: 10 to 15 weapons.
