The Rise Of China's Military: Implications For US National Security

Axel S�rensen

6 min read

Post on May 31, 2025

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Modernization of the Chinese Military

China's military, the People's Liberation Army (PLA), is undergoing a rapid and significant modernization, narrowing the technological gap with the United States. This modernization encompasses both technological advancements and expansion of military capabilities.

Technological Advancements

China's investment in advanced weaponry is transforming its military capabilities. This includes substantial progress in hypersonic missiles, stealth technology, artificial intelligence, and cyber warfare.

• Development of advanced fighter jets: The J-20 stealth fighter jet represents a significant leap in China's air power, challenging US air superiority.
• Ballistic missile capabilities: China has significantly expanded its range and accuracy of ballistic missiles, including both land-based and sea-based systems, posing a credible threat to US assets in the region and beyond.
• Cyber warfare capabilities: China's sophisticated cyber capabilities allow for large-scale attacks against critical infrastructure and sensitive data, presenting a major national security concern.
• Space-based weaponry: China's advancements in space technology raise concerns about the potential development of anti-satellite weapons and other space-based military capabilities.

These technological advancements directly challenge the long-held US military technological superiority and require a reassessment of defense strategies. The development of hypersonic weapons, for instance, necessitates the development of effective countermeasures to maintain a credible deterrent.

Expansion of Military Capabilities

The PLA is not only modernizing its weaponry but also expanding its reach and operational capabilities. This includes a significant expansion of its naval and air force capabilities, enabling blue-water operations and long-range strikes.

• Increased naval deployments in the South China Sea: The PLA Navy's (PLAN) increased presence in the South China Sea, including the construction of artificial islands and military installations, directly challenges regional stability and US interests.
• Expansion of aircraft carrier fleet: China's growing aircraft carrier fleet enhances its power projection capabilities, allowing for operations further from its shores.
• Development of overseas military bases: While less extensive than those of the US, China is establishing military bases and logistical support points in various countries, expanding its global reach and influence.

The expansion of the PLAN's capabilities, particularly in the contested waters of the South China Sea, raises concerns about potential conflict and the need for a robust US naval presence in the Indo-Pacific region.

China's Assertive Foreign Policy and Regional Influence

China's growing military power is inextricably linked to its increasingly assertive foreign policy, which challenges the existing regional and global order. This assertiveness manifests in territorial disputes, economic leverage, and the use of cyber warfare.

Territorial Disputes and Regional Conflicts

China's aggressive stance in territorial disputes, particularly in the South China Sea, directly challenges US allies and interests.

• Tensions with Taiwan: China's increasingly bellicose rhetoric and military exercises near Taiwan represent a significant threat to regional stability and a potential flashpoint for conflict.
• Disputes with neighboring countries over islands and maritime resources: China's claims in the South China Sea, often overlapping with those of its neighbors, have led to heightened tensions and potential for military escalation.

The potential for miscalculation and escalation in these regions necessitates clear and strong US responses to deter further aggression and protect its allies.

Economic Leverage and Global Influence

China uses its economic power to expand its political influence and challenge US-led alliances.

• Belt and Road Initiative (BRI): The BRI, while ostensibly an economic initiative, also serves to expand China's geopolitical influence through infrastructure investment in strategically important locations.
• Investment in strategic infrastructure projects: China’s investments in ports, railways, and other infrastructure projects globally grant it considerable leverage and influence in those countries.
• Economic coercion of other nations: China has been accused of using economic leverage to coerce other nations into complying with its political demands.

This economic assertiveness requires a nuanced US response that balances engagement with strategic countermeasures to prevent undue economic influence from undermining US national security interests.

Cyber Warfare and Information Operations

China's growing capabilities in cyber warfare and information operations pose a significant threat to US national security.

Espionage and Intellectual Property Theft

The PLA's involvement in espionage and intellectual property theft undermines US technological superiority and economic competitiveness.

• Cyberattacks targeting US government agencies and private companies: These attacks aim to steal sensitive information, disrupt operations, and gain strategic advantage.
• Theft of military and technological secrets: The theft of sensitive military and technological information provides China with valuable intelligence and allows it to accelerate its own technological development.

This necessitates a robust cybersecurity strategy to protect critical infrastructure and intellectual property.

US National Security Response Strategies

The rise of China's military demands a comprehensive and multifaceted US response. This response must encompass military modernization, diplomatic engagement, and strategic economic measures.

Military Modernization and Deterrence

Maintaining a credible military deterrent is paramount. The US must invest in its own military modernization to counter China's advancements.

• Investment in next-generation weapons systems: This includes investment in hypersonic weapons, advanced missile defense systems, and other cutting-edge technologies.
• Strengthening alliances in the Indo-Pacific: Strengthening alliances with key partners in the region is vital for maintaining a collective security posture against China.
• Enhanced military exercises and training: Regular joint military exercises and training with allies enhance interoperability and demonstrate US commitment to regional security.

The US must prioritize investments in areas where China has made significant strides, such as hypersonic weapons, to maintain a credible deterrent.

Diplomatic and Economic Engagement

While maintaining a strong military posture, the US must also engage in diplomatic and economic strategies to manage the competition with China.

• Strengthening alliances: Strengthening existing alliances and forging new partnerships to counter China's influence is crucial.
• Promoting multilateral cooperation: Working through international organizations and forums to establish norms and rules of conduct is essential.
• Utilizing economic sanctions: Targeted economic sanctions can be used to address specific Chinese actions that threaten US national security interests.

Finding the right balance between engagement and containment is critical. Overly aggressive containment could trigger escalation, while insufficient engagement could allow China to consolidate its gains.

Conclusion

The rise of China's military presents a complex and evolving challenge to US national security. Understanding the modernization of the PLA, China's assertive foreign policy, and the associated cyber threats is crucial for formulating effective strategies. The US must pursue a balanced approach, combining military modernization, diplomatic engagement, and economic strategies to navigate this new geopolitical reality and ensure the continued protection of its national security interests. Continued monitoring of China's military advancements and proactive development of robust countermeasures are essential for addressing the challenges posed by the rise of China's military. Ignoring this challenge is not an option; proactively addressing the implications of China's expanding military capabilities is crucial for safeguarding US national security.