Modernization of the People's Liberation Army: A Threat to the United States?
Abstract
This study investigates whether or not China, with a modernized military, presents a threat to the United States. The U.S. has been deeply engaged in the East Asia-Pacific region since the end of the Second World War. China, with the world's largest population and a landmass larger than the United States, is located in the heart of the fastest growing economic region in the world. Due in large part to a period of sustained economic growth averaging over 9 percent since 1980, the People's Republic of China has embarked upon a program of military modernization that will significantly increase its force projection capabilities. The study includes a brief review of relevant Chinese history, current events, diplomacy, economics, and the PLA military modernization program. It includes three case studies in which to examine U.S. and Chinese interests: Taiwan, the Spratly Islands, and Korea. The methodology used to determine if China's military modernization poses a threat to the U.S. includes an examination of Chinese and U.S. interests in the three case studies. Conflicting interests, coupled with capability, would indicate that China poses a threat. Conversely, complementary interests would argue that even with the increased capability, China does not pose a threat.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 07, 1996
- Accession Number
- ADA313054
Entities
People
- Joseph W. Blackburn
Organizations
- United States Army Command and General Staff College