Pentagon Report Examines China’s National, Economic, and Military Strategy

Despite its rapid military modernization, China may not be ready for a large-scale war.

Paramilitary police officers march next to the entrance to the Forbidden City in Beijing on May 22, 2020. Nicolas Asfouri/AFP via Getty Images

Commentary

The Department of Defense (DOD) has published its annual report on the People’s Liberation Army, outlining the strategies, forces, and capabilities Beijing aims to employ to achieve its goal of national “rejuvenation” by 2049. Despite its rapid military modernization, China may not be ready to fight and win a war because of an economic slowdown and other challenges.