SIPRI Report: India Deploys 12 Nuclear Weapons for the First Time, Stockpile Increases to 190

India has, for the first time, deployed 12 nuclear weapons, as per the latest report by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). The report states that India's nuclear stockpile has grown from 180 to 190 over the past two years. In contrast, Pakistan's stockpile remains at 170, with no clarity on how many are deployed.

The report notes that India does not officially disclose the exact number, capacity, or names of its nuclear weapons, similar to practices by other nations like Russia and the United States. SIPRI's findings are based on estimates. Globally, nine countries, including India, possess a total of 12,187 nuclear weapons, with 9,745 of them ready for use.

India is also focusing on developing long-range nuclear delivery systems, including the MIRV (Multiple Independently Targetable Reentry Vehicle) technology. This technology enables a single ballistic missile to carry multiple nuclear warheads targeting different locations. Additionally, India's nuclear submarine capabilities, particularly with INS Arihant, are becoming a key component of its second-strike capacity.

The report mentions that in May 2025, India and Pakistan engaged in a brief military conflict, during which India targeted several Pakistani sites suspected of being linked to its nuclear program. Both nations avoided escalating the situation further. The conflict also saw the first use of cyberattacks and digital operations by both sides, with India naming its operation 'Sindoor.'