They could be exercising something similar to the "threshold capacity" of the NPT. Under the NPT signatories are allowed to enrich and stockpile nuclear fuel

They could be exercising something similar to the "threshold capacity" of the NPT. Under the NPT signatories are allowed to enrich and stockpile nuclear fuel for civilian purposes. Under this restriction, states can go almost nuclear. The tech and materials for civilian and military nuclear use is similar enough that a country that can do power independently would be able to produce bombs within 2-5 years. Some countries have a "threshold strategy" where they stay within the bounds of the treaty but maintain an ability to withdraw and make up ground as quickly as possible. Japan & Australia, for example.