China has built and modernized several nuclear facilities in the mountainous areas of Sichuan province in recent years, according to an analysis published by The New York Times, based on satellite images. The activity is taking place at a time when the last major nuclear arms control treaty between the United States and Russia is dead.
Recent images show accelerated works in a new complex in the Zitong valley. The bunkers and terraces in the area are equipped with numerous pipes, which, according to experts cited, could indicate the handling of dangerous materials.
In another valley is the Pingdong facility, protected by a double fence. Analysts say that plutonium nuclear warheads could be manufactured there. The main building has been renovated in recent years, with new ventilation and heat dissipation systems added, and construction work continues nearby.
The publication notes that several objectives associated with the nuclear program in Sichuan have been expanded or modernized in recent years.
Washington maintains that any future arms control agreement should also include Beijing, but China has not expressed interest in such an initiative.
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