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China presses toward 'world-class' forces by mid-21st century amid island chain
The People’s Liberation Army is aiming to improve dual-carrier operations, expand large-scale arms production, and strengthen nuclear deterrence, while the US and allies expand base access and run more sophisticated drills.
The South China Morning Post reports that the People’s Liberation Army marked its 99th anniversary on August 1, with Beijing pushing the force to transform into a “world-class military” by the mid-21st century.
The outlet says China’s strategy centers on the near-seas island arc known as the first island chain, spanning from Japan through Taiwan to the Philippines, which Chinese strategists view as a chokepoint constraint and a likely entry route for US and allied forces in a regional crisis.
According to the report, the PLA has shown progress ahead of its 2027 centenary goal, including dual-carrier operations, large-scale arms production, and improved nuclear deterrence beyond the island chain, while the Pentagon’s latest China Military Power Report highlights the region as central to Beijing’s strategy.
The South China Morning Post also notes that the US and allies have increased their role, including expanding American base access in the Philippines and conducting increasingly sophisticated defense drills with regional partners.