Increase in activity observed at nuclear test sites in China, US, and Russia via satellite images

Reimagining Nuclear Test Site Expansions

Russia, the United States, and China have all recently expanded their nuclear test sites, raising concerns about the possibility of resumed nuclear testing and escalating tensions between these major nuclear powers.

New satellite images obtained exclusively by CNN reveal that Russia, the United States, and China have made significant developments at their respective nuclear test sites in recent years. These expansions include the construction of new tunnels, roads, storage facilities, and increased vehicle traffic. While there is currently no evidence to suggest an imminent nuclear test, the expansions indicate preparations for future testing.

Russia’s Arctic Ocean Archipelago Test Site

Russian nuclear test site in Novaya Zemlya, located in the Arctic Ocean archipelago, has seen extensive construction and activity. The site has been in use since 1955 and has undergone significant expansions recently. Satellite images show new shipping containers, ships, and roads being cleared in the winter. Tunnels have been dug deep into the Arctic mountains, suggesting readiness for nuclear testing.

China’s Lop Nur Test Site

China’s nuclear test site in Lop Nur, a dried-up salt lake in the western region, has also shown increased activity. Satellite images reveal the excavation of a fifth underground tunnel, the expansion of existing tunnels, and the construction of new roads. Additionally, new storage areas have been built, potentially for storing explosives.

The Implications

These expansions at the nuclear test sites of Russia, the United States, and China have raised concerns among experts and analysts. There are growing fears about the possibility of resumed nuclear testing and the subsequent acceleration of the global arms race. The investments made by these countries in modernizing their nuclear arsenals and testing infrastructure only perpetuate this dangerous cycle.

Retired US Air Force Col. Cedric Leighton, a former intelligence analyst, warns that while an armed conflict is not imminent, the expansions increase the risk of modernizing nuclear weapons testing infrastructure. This deepens the mistrust between Washington and the two authoritarian governments.

The Doomsday Clock and Global Risks

The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, a prominent nuclear watchdog group, recently set its iconic Doomsday Clock to 90 seconds to midnight, the most precarious setting since its establishment in 1947. The group cited the war in Ukraine, sparked by Russia’s illegal invasion, as a significant factor in its assessment. The risk of nuclear conflict and the potential end of humankind is considered higher now than during the intense nuclear testing period of the 1950s.

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has called for key countries to ratify the international treaty that bans nuclear testing. With approximately 13,000 nuclear weapons stockpiled worldwide, the growing accuracy, reach, and destructive power of these weapons poses a serious threat to global security.

The Russian Perspective

Russia’s recent military performance in Ukraine and its hawkish rhetoric from figures like Dmitry Medvedev have led some to speculate about their motivations for expanding their nuclear test site. While Medvedev has made provocative statements regarding the use of nuclear weapons, it is important to note that Russian President Vladimir Putin holds significant decision-making power.

It is unclear exactly what is happening at these sites beyond what satellite images reveal, and Moscow has not responded to requests for comment. However, the developments at these nuclear test sites underscore the need for international cooperation, disarmament, and adherence to nuclear nonproliferation treaties.

Read More of this Story at www.cnn.com – 2023-09-22 05:39:00