India, North Korea Expand Nuclear Stockpiles, Increase Regional Threats

India's nuclear arsenal has increased from 164 warheads in 2023 to an estimated 180 in early 2025, surpassing Pakistan's stable count of 170 warheads and marking the fastest growth in South Asia's nuclear capabilities. Concerns arise from India's potential shift towards mating warheads with launchers in peacetime, development of longer-range missiles targeting beyond South Asia, and a possible move away from its no-first-use policy towards a counterforce posture. Meanwhile, North Korea has dramatically expanded its nuclear program, amassing fissile material sufficient for up to 90 warheads—up from last year's 20 to 60—with enrichment operations extending beyond Yongbyon to a secret site at Kangson. Congressional and international reports highlight North Korea's assembly of approximately 50 warheads, advancement in missile technology likely aided by Russia, and adoption of a nuclear first-use doctrine, posing severe regional and global security threats. The International Atomic Energy Agency describes North Korea's program as "completely off the charts," urging diplomatic efforts over sanctions to address the rapid escalation. U.S. policy continues to emphasize deterrence and extended defense cooperation with South Korea, while expressing firm opposition to any nuclear aggression by North Korea.