China is building a vast military complex in a remote desert region, which experts say appears to be a countermeasure against an American first strike on China’s nuclear arsenal. These would ensure that such a strike wouldn’t prevent Beijing from hitting back. 

Satellite images reviewed by Reuters show China is building a web of launch pads, bunkers and communications facilities near isolated nuclear silos that hold China’s long-range ballistic missiles. 

Three security analysts who assessed the images told Reuters that the 80 pads will possibly serve electronic warfare, satellite communications and command operations. 

Altogether, the facilities suggest a significant upgrade in China’s efforts to ensure nuclear second-strike capability against the U.S. 

“We’re looking at a very considerable enhancement and diversification of China’s strategic nuclear deterrent,” Alexander Neill, adjunct fellow at Hawaii’s Pacific Forum think tank, said.