ADAPTING US STRATEGY TO ACCOUNT FOR CHINA’S TRANSFORMATION INTO A PEER NUCLEAR POWER - China has embarked on an ambitious expansion, modernization, and diversification of its nuclear forces and established a nascent nuclear triad. This nuclear expansion, alongside China’s expanding capabilities in the space, cyber, and artificial intelligence domains, brings into question China’s nuclear intent and future deterrence posture given its core interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

In this report, the principal investigators, John Culver and David Shullman, reassess China’s changing strategy, doctrine, and warfighting approach as a peer nuclear power, and China’s employment of this nuclear power in the context of US-led military and economic actions against China in a Taiwan invasion scenario. Based on this reassessment of China’s nuclear strategy, the report also provides actionable recommendations for the US and allied decision-makers.

The event brings together a group of experts to delve into the report and discuss China’s nuclear ambitions and the US government’s approach towards China’s nuclear buildup more broadly.

ORIGINAL AIRDATE: 09/30/2024