WASHINGTON—The Heritage Foundation released a new documentary today exposing the vulnerabilities of America’s aging nuclear arsenal—and the growing threat posed by China’s comparative nuclear strength and rapidly-expanding capabilities. 

The 13-minute documentary highlights how America’s tactical nuclear weapons—designed for precision and limited destruction—are nearly four decades old and ill-equipped to counter China’s modern advancements.  

Robert Greenway, director of the Allison Center for National Security, commented on the film’s release:   

“The United States has neglected the modernization of its tactical nuclear arsenal for far too long. This failure leaves us at a severe strategic disadvantage, with profound and lasting consequences for national security.

“China’s rapid nuclear expansion has already surpassed the U.S. in critical areas, and yet, there is still no concrete plan to address this escalating threat. This documentary serves as a wake-up call, providing a compelling case for urgent modernization and decisive action from lawmakers, the administration, and key defense leaders.”

China has tripled its nuclear arsenal over the past five years and plans to go from 500 to 1,000 warheads by 2030. The Heritage film argues that the United States is not prepared to support Taiwan amid a Chinese invasion of the island, particularly if China employed nuclear weapons as part of the invasion.  

Bob Peters, senior research fellow for strategic deterrence in the Allison Center for National Security, added:  

“The reality is stark: America’s nuclear arsenal is aged and not postured to deter 21st century threats—and our adversaries know it. We can no longer afford to rely on Cold War-era capabilities in a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape.

“I am proud to be part of this critical project and deeply grateful to Heritage and our contributors for bringing this urgent issue to light.” 

Featuring insights from prominent national security and defense experts, the documentary includes commentary from: 

• Sen. Deb Fischer (R-NE) 

• Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX) 

• Admiral Charles Richard (Ret.), former commander, U.S. Strategic Command 

• Robert Joseph, former undersecretary of state 

• Frank Miller, former senior director of the National Security Council 

• Rebecca Heinrichs, senior fellow at the Hudson Institute 

The full film can be seen here.