Visualizing the World’s Nuclear Arsenal in 2024 ☢️

What We’re Showing:

This graphic visualizes the world’s nuclear arsenal. It uses estimated nuclear warhead inventories from the Federation of American Scientists as of August 2024.

Key Takeaways:

• Russia and the U.S. hold approximately 90% of all nuclear warheads globally.  
• Although Russia has a larger inventory, the U.S. deploys more warheads on intercontinental missiles and heavy bomber bases.
• Of the world's 12,121 nuclear warheads, about 9,585 are in active military stockpiles, while the rest are retired but remain largely intact.

Types of Warheads:

• Deployed Warheads: Installed on intercontinental missiles, at heavy bomber bases, or on bases with operational short-range delivery systems.
• Reserve Warheads: Stored and not mounted on launchers.
• Retired Warheads: Intact but awaiting dismantlement.