China is constructing nuclear launch facilities and shelters, as seen in satellite photos.

China has been making headlines recently with their rapidly expanding military network in Xinjiang province. Satellite images have revealed the construction of dozens of launch pads for nuclear missiles, with over 80 already built in the middle of the desert. This area is also home to the Uyghur muslim community, making the development even more significant.

The new infrastructure has been built within the past six years, with the octagon structures at the center of the network being the most notable feature. These structures house personnel and large military vehicles, and are connected to the Hami nuclear silo fields, which hold China's longest range missiles. This strategic placement is further reinforced by the presence of airfields and railheads.

During a parade in Beijing last September, China displayed their nuclear capable weapons, showcasing their growing military power. Experts believe that the launch pads could also be used to deploy air defense missiles, electronic warfare nodes, and even mobile ICBM units. This development is seen as a significant enhancement and diversification of China's strategic nuclear deterrent by Alexander Neill, a fellow at Hawaii's Pacific Forum think tank.

Compared to other nuclear powers like Russia and the US, China has a smaller stockpile of nuclear weapons. However, their investment in hardened infrastructure and early warning capabilities is a clear indication of their commitment to protecting and enforcing their nuclear forces. According to Pentagon reports, China is expanding their nuclear capabilities faster than any other nation and is on track to reach 1,000 warheads by 2030.

Despite their "no first use" policy, there are concerns that China could use nuclear coercion to deter foreign intervention in Taiwan. This was highlighted during a recent meeting between Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, where Xi warned of the potential consequences of disagreements over Taiwan. Hans Kristensen, from the Federation of American Scientists' Nuclear Information Project, believes that it is hard to rule out any possibilities when considering how China could deploy their enlarged military capability.

He also described the development in Xinjiang province as an "extraordinary effort". With China's continued expansion and modernization of their military, it is clear that they are positioning themselves as a strong global power.