<h4>The Evolving Threat of Nuclear Weapons</h4><p>The destructive potential of <strong>nuclear weapons</strong> has undergone a dramatic escalation since their first use. Understanding this evolution is crucial for comprehending modern global security challenges.</p><div class='info-box'><p>The first atomic bomb, dropped on <strong>Hiroshima</strong> in <strong>1945</strong>, had a yield of approximately <strong>15 kilotons (kt)</strong>. This single weapon caused unprecedented devastation.</p></div><h4>Escalation in Destructive Power</h4><p>Modern nuclear arsenals possess capabilities far exceeding those of early atomic bombs. Technological advancements have led to the development of thermonuclear weapons, also known as hydrogen bombs, with significantly higher yields.</p><div class='info-box'><p>An example of this increased power is the <strong>Tsar Bomba</strong>, tested by <strong>Russia</strong> (then the Soviet Union) in <strong>1961</strong>. This weapon achieved an estimated yield of <strong>50 megatons (Mt)</strong>.</p></div><div class='key-point-box'><p>To put this in perspective, the <strong>Tsar Bomba</strong> was over <strong>3,800 times more powerful</strong> than the bomb dropped on <strong>Hiroshima</strong>. This stark difference highlights the exponential increase in destructive capacity.</p></div><h4>Implications for Global Security</h4><p>The existence of such powerful weapons necessitates robust international efforts for non-proliferation and disarmament. The potential for widespread destruction in a nuclear exchange remains a primary concern for policymakers worldwide.</p><div class='exam-tip-box'><p><strong>UPSC Mains GS-II:</strong> When discussing nuclear threats, always mention the qualitative leap in destructive power from early atomic bombs to modern thermonuclear weapons. This demonstrates a nuanced understanding of the subject.</p></div>