What is decoupling? The method US claims China used to conceal its 'secret nuclear test' - The Times of India
The United States has alleged that China may have used a method known as “decoupling” to conceal the true scale of a suspected underground nuclear test. Decoupling is a scientific technique in which a nuclear explosion is carried out inside a large underground cavity, significantly reducing the seismic signals normally detected by monitoring agencies. This makes the blast appear much smaller than it actually is, complicating global surveillance efforts. According to US officials, such a tactic could allow a country to bypass international scrutiny while continuing to advance its nuclear weapons programme. China has denied any wrongdoing and maintains that it complies with global non-proliferation commitments. The development has renewed concerns about transparency, arms control agreements, and the effectiveness of current nuclear test monitoring systems, especially as geopolitical tensions between major powers continue to rise.
The Key points
- The US claims China used “decoupling” during a suspected nuclear test.
- Decoupling involves detonating a device inside a large underground cavity.
- The method weakens seismic signals detected by monitoring stations.
- A powerful blast can appear much smaller in magnitude.
- This tactic complicates global nuclear surveillance systems.
- Concerns have been raised over arms control compliance.
- China denies conducting any secret nuclear tests.
- Experts say detection becomes harder but not impossible.
- The issue highlights gaps in current monitoring technology.
- The controversy adds to rising US-China strategic tensions.
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