Are nuclear weapons always ready or does it take time to activate them? What is the process if a country decides to launch nuclear weapon?

India.com

15-05-2025

Are nuclear weapons always ready or does it take time to activate them? What is the process if a country decides to do so?
In the recent India-Pakistan war-like situation, the topic of nuclear weapon was again revived. The issue of radiation leak from Kerana Hills during the India-Pakistan war is also being discussed a lot on social media at a time when both are nuclear powers.
The process of activating a nuclear weapon involves several steps include various steps: Decision making, Command-and-control, Weapons preparation and finally launch.
The time to activate nuclear weapons depends on the military preparedness and technical infrastructure of the country.
Below is an estimate of the time to major nuclear countries:
United States of America: The United States of America has the world's most advanced nuclear programme. The US has land, sea (submarines), and air (bombers) based weapons that are always deployed which can be launched within a time frame of 10-15 minutes.
Russia: Russia's nuclear system is so highly advanced that it has automated systems such as 'Dead Hand' (Perimeter), to ensure a counter-attack. Russia's ICBMs, such as the Sarmat missile, can launch in a few minutes. Submarine and mobile launchers may take a little longer, but Russia's strategy is focused on quick response. It's estimated launch time is 3-4 minutes.
China: Beijing's nuclear strategy is based on 'no first use' and hence its weapons are not always in deployed position. Its activation and refueling missiles can take time. China which has expanded its nuclear capability in recent years can now launch new hypersonic missiles rapidly. China has around 350-400 weapons, of which only a few are deployed. Its launch time varies from 15-30 minutes.
India: India's nuclear policy is based on 'no first use' and 'credible minimum deterrence'. India's weapons are not stored in a deployed state. India has about 172 nuclear weapons, mostly land and sea-based. India will need a minimum of 30 minutes to launch.
Pakistan: Pakistan's nuclear strategy is focused on India. It has the capability to respond quickly. However, its weapons are not kept in deployed state. Pakistan has around 170 weapons, mainly ground-based.