New Directions of China’s Nuclear Posture: Capabilities and Limitation

Abstract

The role of nuclear posture is important in the projection of national power. It entails the ambitions of power in determining the national goals. It also plays a crucial role in maintaining a nuclear deterrence. Nuclear postures are mainly expressed by nuclear doctrine, command and control system and the targeting plans of a country. The nuclear doctrine of China stands for credible minimum nuclear deterrence. China developed nuclear weapons as a limited force to prevent nuclear blackmail and to obtain greater international status and prestige. It’s relatively small nuclear forces are intended for retaliation rather than first strike purpose. China has always shown principled stand on nuclear problems and has exercised nuclear restrain against other nuclear powers.