Satellite images have revealed significant activity at China’s Lop Nur military base, suggesting preparations for nuclear testing—a development that could have profound implications for global security and geopolitical stability. Located in the Taklamakan Desert near the Gobi, Lop Nur has long been a hub for China’s most advanced military technology, much like the United States’ famed Area 51. Originally the site of China’s first nuclear test in 1964, the base may soon resume its original purpose.
Renny Babiarz, a former U.S. Department of Defence analyst and current vice-president for Allsource Analysis, has scrutinised satellite imagery from 2020 to 2024. His findings indicate the presence of new boreholes, horizontal tunnels, access roads, support buildings, and storage facilities for highly explosive materials—all indicative of preparations for nuclear testing.
“China has prepared to be able to test, should it want to, almost any time it wants to,” Babiarz told The Telegraph. “China’s done a lot of that preparation and these observations reinforce the idea that this is a new area and it’s active.”
This revelation comes at a time when China is rapidly expanding its nuclear arsenal. According to a report by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) published in June, China now possesses approximately 600 atomic warheads, adding around 100 weapons annually to its stockpile. The report also highlights that 24 of these warheads are already deployed on missiles or stationed at operational bases, ready for immediate use.
The potential resumption of nuclear testing by China would mark a significant shift in global nuclear dynamics. After a 30-year hiatus, any such move would likely trigger a reassessment of nuclear strategies by other major powers, potentially leading to a new arms race. The implications for regional stability, particularly in Asia, could be severe, as neighbouring countries may feel compelled to bolster their own nuclear capabilities in response.
Moreover, this development underscores the importance of international non-proliferation efforts and the need for robust diplomatic engagement. The global community must closely monitor these activities and engage in dialogue to prevent a destabilising escalation in nuclear capabilities. The stakes are high, and the actions taken now will shape the security landscape for decades to come.
As China continues to advance its military technology, the world watches with a mix of concern and vigilance. The preparations at Lop Nur serve as a stark reminder of the delicate balance of power and the critical need for sustained efforts towards global disarmament and peace.