China's Assertive Nuclear Posture: State Security in an Anarchic International Order

China's nuclear capability is crucial for the balance of power in East Asia and the world; and has the potential to disrupt the East Asian, and global, strategic balance. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the recent changes in China's nuclear posture. It argues that there is a new, troubling assertiveness about China's nuclear posture, and assesses the likely impact on China's neighbours and on the international strategic balance, especially with the United States. The book concludes by discussing the shift under China's new leadership towards a more offensive international strategy, and by considering China's nuclear posture within this broader development.