US think tank estimates India’s nuclear arsenal at roughly 190 warheads
The Federation of American Scientists estimates India now holds about 190 nuclear warheads, including 30 in production, and is modernizing its delivery systems.
A recent analysis by the Federation of American Scientists puts India’s nuclear stockpile at approximately 190 warheads, comprising more than 160 deployed on operational launchers and around 30 additional units under production for upcoming missile systems. The estimate is based on publicly available information, state-originating data and commercial satellite imagery. The study highlights continued modernization across India’s nuclear-capable aircraft, land-based missiles and submarine platforms, while reaffirming the country’s declared no-first-use stance.
It also references the International Panel on Fissile Materials’ calculation of about 730 kg of weapons-grade plutonium, which could theoretically support between 140 and 225 warheads, though uncertainties about warhead designs persist. The authors caution that not all plutonium may have been converted into warheads and that the total stockpile is limited by the number of delivery systems. Overall, the analysis suggests India’s nuclear arsenal is likely to expand as new systems are fielded.
