The report by SIPRI, one of the world's leading arms-monitoring organizations, states that this is the first time India's nuclear arsenal has been categorized as operationally deployed rather than stockpiled. The move indicates a higher level of military readiness and reflects evolving strategic deterrence measures.
According to the report, the deployment includes ready-to-fire nuclear weapons associated with underground missile silos and new nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines. SIPRI notes that the 12 newly deployed warheads mark the first known instance of India mating nuclear warheads with delivery systems or placing them at bases alongside operational forces.
The report further highlights that India's nuclear weapons stockpile registered a modest increase over the past year. As of January 2026, India was estimated to possess approximately 190 nuclear weapons, up slightly from the previous year. These weapons are assigned to what SIPRI describes as a maturing nuclear triad consisting of aircraft, land-based missile systems, and ballistic missile submarines.
SIPRI stated that it has long been assumed India stored its nuclear warheads separately from deployed launchers during peacetime. However, recent developments, including the placement of missiles in canisters and the conduct of sea-based deterrence patrols, suggest that India may be moving toward maintaining some nuclear warheads mated with their launchers even during peacetime.
Despite the reported changes in deployment posture, India continues to adhere to its established "No First Use" nuclear doctrine. Under this policy, India commits to not initiating a nuclear strike and reserves the use of nuclear weapons solely in retaliation to a nuclear attack on Indian territory or on Indian military forces anywhere in the world.
India's nuclear strategy remains centered on maintaining a limited but credible deterrent capability. The doctrine emphasizes preventing aggression through deterrence rather than pursuing a large-scale nuclear arms race. The latest SIPRI assessment, however, suggests that India's operational approach to nuclear readiness is evolving, marking a significant moment in the country's strategic and defense posture.
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