China is expanding its nuclear force, has increased military pressure against Taiwan and has strengthened its ties with Russia over the past year, according to a Pentagon report Wednesday that details actions accelerating key areas of conflict with the United States.

A new Pentagon report says China is continuing to expand its nuclear force and has strengthened its ties with Russia over the past year.

China has increased its arsenal of operational nuclear warheads to 600 from 500 in just a year, as the People’s Liberation Army continues a rapid expansion of its forces, according to the US defence department.