U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission has raised alarms about China's military capabilities, suggesting that the nation poses a significant threat to US interests in the Indo-Pacific region. The comprehensive 793-page document, which draws from both classified and unclassified sources, indicates that China's military might now has the potential to outmatch U.S. forces in a future regional conflict.
The report highlights that Beijing's military expansion over the past two decades has focused on developing a formidable arsenal of missiles, ships, aircraft, and advanced systems designed for potential conflicts in the Indo-Pacific. «It warns that, as result, US. forces and bases in the region would face a significant threat from the [People’s Liberation Army] in any regional contingency involving treaty allies and/or security partners, and the outcome of any such conflict is far from certain.»
Despite the evident military advancements, the report notes that while China is bolstering its military readiness, it does not currently believe that an armed conflict is imminent. “There is ample evidence that China’s armed forces are enhancing their general military preparedness, but little evidence they are mobilizing for an imminent conflict at this time,” the report states.
U.S. allies in the region, including Japan, the Philippines, and Australia, share concerns about China's military ambitions and have increased collaboration with the United States. However, differing priorities among these nations and