Russia's Deployed Nuclear Warheads Hit Nine-Year High

Russia has been increasing the number of nuclear warheads deployed on delivery vehicles for the fourth consecutive year, according to a report by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). As of January 2026, it had 1,796, the highest number since 2017. SIPRI estimates Russia's total nuclear arsenal at 5,420 warheads. By comparison, the United States had approximately 1,770 deployed warheads.

Russia's nuclear forces rely on land-based intercontinental ballistic missiles, strategic submarines and bombers. SIPRI also notes that modernization of the arsenal faces challenges from sanctions, the limitations of Russian industry and the priority given to producing conventional weapons for the war against Ukraine.

Moscow, however, continues to deploy new systems, including the Oreshnik missile. The situation is further complicated by a growing lack of transparency.

Since the New START treaty expired in February 2026, controls over Russian and US strategic weapons have been reduced. SIPRI warns that the number of operational nuclear warheads may continue to rise in the coming years.

(mja)