By Jim Mishler | Thursday, 06 November 2025 08:15 PM EST
Retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. Tony Shaffer warned that Russia and China are advancing ahead of the United States in nuclear weapons technology, citing significant developments in modernized warhead designs and deployment methods. Speaking on “The Chris Salcedo Show,” Shaffer emphasized that both nations have created a new generation of weapons with reduced radiation effects, marking a critical shift in capabilities.
“The Chinese and Russians have developed a new generation of weapons, which basically are virtually radiation-free regarding blast effect, which is significant. So we’ve got to catch up,” Shaffer stated. He highlighted that Russia currently possesses more warheads than the U.S., with ongoing testing, while China is projected to expand its arsenal from 300 to 1,000 warheads by 2030.
Shaffer criticized the lack of U.S. nuclear testing since 1992, comparing it to driving a car built in the same year. “And … I don’t know of anybody who drives a car made in 1992. The technology has changed significantly,” he said.
Former President Donald Trump had previously claimed the U.S. holds the largest nuclear arsenal, stating during his first term that it underwent extensive updates. However, Shaffer suggested such claims underestimate the rapid progress of adversaries. Trump also expressed interest in collaborating with Russia and China to reduce reliance on nuclear weapons, though Shaffer implied this goal faces challenges given the technological gap.
