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https://mil.news.sina.com.cn/jssd/2019-12-20/doc-iihnzhfz7141520.shtml
中国新型空投系统试验成功 或已列装新一代空降战车
中国新型空投系统试验成功 或已列装新一代空降战车
47
国产新一代空投系统试验成功
12月19日，航空工业航宇救生装备有限公司成功完成四种新型空投空降系统高原试验，标志着国产空投空降系统战术技术水平向前迈进了一大步。
从相关报道可以看到这四种新型空投空降系统包括一次性空投系统、通用型战车空投系统、轮式战车空投系统和新型主动调姿系统。这些系统研制也表明中国空降兵新一代战车已经或者即将列装部队，有效增强中国空降兵火力、机动能力和突击能力。
国产ZBD-03空降兵战车，它配备国产第一代重装空投系统
伊尔-76空投ZBD-03空降兵战车
中国空降兵目前主力空降战车是ZBD-03空降兵战车。它的战斗全重大约8吨，配备有30毫米机关炮、红箭73反坦克导弹，它的列装标志着中国空降兵纵深机动作战能力发生了飞跃。为了配合ZBD-03战车作战，中国航宇公司研制了国产第一代重装空投系统，装备伊尔-76、运-8运输机，它能够将ZBD-03安全准确空投到预定地点。
随着时间的推迟，空降兵感觉ZBD-03空降兵战车火力、防护能力相对不足，已经难以适应未来战场要求，要求研制第二代空降兵战车。2018年珠海航展国产第二代空降兵战车首次公开亮相，从相关图片来看，国产第二代空降兵战车最大特点就是换装了国产步兵战车武器，包括100毫米滑膛炮、30毫米并列机关炮，前者既能发射高爆杀伤弹，又能发射炮射反坦克导弹，，后者能够发射脱壳穿甲弹，可以灵活对付战场各种目标，作战能力显著增强。另外国产第二代空降兵战车还增加了防护，战斗全重也随之增加。因此底盘长度增加，负重轮增加到6个。战斗全重增加意味着对空投系统也提出更高要求，要求它能够承受更大重量，所以我们看到国产新一代通用型战车空投系统在重量上面取得了突破，也可以从运-20、运-9等新型运输机上面空投。
2018年珠海航展国产新一代空降兵战车公开亮相
此次试验还有轮式战车空投系统，它表明国产新型轮式战车已经列装空降兵。国产空降兵战车列装之后，它还需要一系列配套车辆提供支持，例如侦察巡逻、火力支援等等。2018年珠海航展，国产轮式高机动侦察车公开亮相，它采用4*4驱动，具备较高越野性能和一定防护能力，车顶安装有ZBD-03步兵战车炮塔，武器也与ZBD-03相当，包括1门30毫米机关炮、7.62毫米机枪，热成像观瞄系统，必要的时候也可以发射红旗73反坦克导弹。它主要执行中低强度环境下机动作战、高强度对抗环境下侦察巡逻等任务。中国空降兵装备这种战车之后，执行任务灵活性更好，能够适应更加复杂作战环境。
国产轮式高机动战车
在2018年珠海航展上面，中国空降兵还展出了多型自行火炮，例如轮式107毫米箱式自行火箭炮，它采用猛士三代越野车作为底盘，具备重量轻、机动性能好、火力猛等特点。另外一种则是在ZBD-03基础上改装的120毫米迫榴炮，这种火炮最大特点就是既能象迫击炮那样曲射目标，又能象榴弹炮那样远程打击目标，甚至还能发射破甲弹攻击对方坦克、步兵战车。120毫米迫榴炮是中国陆军合成营主要伴随火力，相关单位为它研制了激光制导炮弹、卫星制导炮弹、末敏弹等等，让它可以精确打击目标，从而有效增强了空降兵伴随火力。由于轮式战车、自行火炮与履带式战车存在根本性区域，需要专用空投系统，所以航宇公司研制了新型轮式战车空投系统。
2018年珠海航展公开国产107毫米轮式自行火箭炮和120毫米迫榴炮
空投系统在空中会受到气流影响，会让战车姿态不稳定，落地的时候发生翻滚，造成翻车，甚至会造成战车失去战斗力。空降兵落地后还需要把战车扶正，损坏之后还要进行修理，耗时费力，容易耽误战机，航宇公司为此研制了主动调姿系统，能够在空中调整战车姿态，避免落地之后翻滚，可以让战车迅速投入战斗。
从这里我们可以看到中国空降兵重装化、机械化建设又向前迈进了一大步，一系列新型战车、自行火炮列装备部队，有效增加了部队作战能力。（作者署名：小飞猪观察）
China's new airdrop system has successfully tested or has installed a new generation of airborne combat vehicles
China's new airdrop system has successfully tested or has installed a new generation of airborne combat vehicles
47
成功 Successful test of domestic new generation airdrop system
On December 19, Aviation Industry Aerospace Lifesaving Equipment Co., Ltd. successfully completed the plateau test of four new air-drop air-drop systems, marking a major step forward in the tactical and technical level of domestic air-drop air-drop systems.
相关 From related reports, we can see that these four new types of airdrop systems include one-off airdrop systems, general-purpose tank airdrop systems, wheeled tank airdrop systems, and new active attitude adjustment systems. The development of these systems also shows that a new generation of Chinese airborne combat vehicles has been or will soon be deployed, effectively enhancing the firepower, maneuverability and assault capabilities of Chinese airborne troops.
Domestic ZBD-03 airborne combat vehicle, which is equipped with the first domestic heavy airdrop system
IL-76 airdrop ZBD-03 airborne combat vehicle
The main airborne combat vehicle of the Chinese Airborne Force is the ZBD-03 Airborne Forced Vehicle. Its combat weight is about 8 tons, and it is equipped with 30mm machine guns and Red Arrow 73 anti-tank missiles. Its installation marks a leap in the depth of mobile combat capability of Chinese airborne forces. In order to cooperate with the ZBD-03 combat vehicle, China Aerospace has developed the first domestically produced heavy-load airdrop system, equipped with the Il-76 and Yun-8 transport aircraft, which can safely and accurately drop the ZBD-03 to the intended location.
With the delay of time, the airborne soldiers felt that the ZBD-03 airborne combat vehicle had relatively insufficient firepower and protection capabilities, and it was already difficult to adapt to future battlefield requirements, requiring the development of a second-generation airborne combat vehicle. The second-generation domestic airborne combat vehicle of the Zhuhai Airshow in 2018 made its first public appearance. From the relevant pictures, the biggest feature of the domestic second-generation airborne combat vehicle is the replacement of domestic infantry fighting vehicle weapons, including 100mm smoothbore guns, 30 The millimeter parallel machine guns can fire both high-explosive anti-explosive bombs and anti-tank missiles, and the latter can fire hull armor-piercing shells, which can flexibly deal with various targets on the battlefield and significantly increase its combat capabilities. In addition, the domestic second-generation airborne combat vehicle also added protection, and the total combat weight also increased. As a result, the length of the chassis increased and the number of road wheels increased to six. The increase in the total combat weight means that higher requirements are placed on the airdrop system, which requires it to be able to withstand greater weight. Therefore, we have seen that the domestic new-generation general-purpose combat vehicle airdrop system has achieved a breakthrough in weight. Airdrop on new transporters such as Yun-9.
The new generation of domestically launched airborne combat vehicles of the Zhuhai Air Show 2018 is unveiled
This test also has a wheeled chariot airdrop system, which indicates that the new domestically produced wheeled chariots have been equipped with airborne troops. After the domestic airborne combat vehicle is installed, it also needs a series of supporting vehicles to provide support, such as reconnaissance and patrol, fire support and so on. At the Zhuhai Air Show in 2018, a domestic wheeled high-mobility reconnaissance vehicle was unveiled. It uses 4 * 4 drive, has high off-road performance and certain protection capabilities. The roof is equipped with a ZBD-03 infantry fighting vehicle turret. 03 is equivalent, including a 30mm machine gun, a 7.62mm machine gun, a thermal imaging sighting system, and a Red Flag 73 anti-tank missile can also be fired when necessary. It mainly performs tasks such as maneuvering in low and medium intensity environments, and reconnaissance and patrol in high intensity confrontation environments. After Chinese airborne troops are equipped with such vehicles, they can perform tasks more flexibly and can adapt to more complex combat environments.
Domestic wheeled high motor vehicle
At the 2018 Zhuhai Air Show, the Chinese Airborne Corps also exhibited multiple self-propelled artillery, such as a wheeled 107mm box-type self-propelled rocket launcher. It uses the third generation of off-road vehicles of the Warriors as its chassis, with light weight, good maneuverability and fierce firepower. Features. The other is a 120mm mortar howitzer based on ZBD-03. The biggest feature of this artillery is that it can both shoot at the target like a mortar, and can strike the target at a long range like a howitzer. The bombs attacked the opposing tanks and infantry fighting vehicles. The 120mm mortar howitzer is the main accompanying firepower of the Chinese Army's synthetic battalion. Relevant units have developed laser-guided artillery shells, satellite-guided artillery shells, and terminal-sensitive shells, etc., so that it can accurately strike the target, thereby effectively enhancing the accompanying firepower of airborne troops. Since there are fundamental areas for wheeled tanks, self-propelled artillery and tracked tanks, a dedicated airdrop system is needed, so Aerospace has developed a new wheeled tank airdrop system.
Introduced domestically produced 107mm wheeled self-propelled rocket launcher and 120mm mortar howitzer at Zhuhai Airshow 2018
The airdrop system will be affected by airflow in the air, which will make the attitude of the chariot unstable, roll over when landing, cause a rollover, and even cause the chariot to lose its combat effectiveness. After the airborne troops land, they need to straighten the tank and repair them after damage. This is time-consuming and easy to delay the fighter. Aerospace has developed an active attitude adjustment system for this, which can adjust the attitude of the tank in the air to avoid rolling after landing , Can make the chariot quickly enter the battle.
From here, we can see that the Chinese airborne troops have been reloaded and mechanized. They have taken a big step forward. A series of new combat vehicles and self-propelled artillery lines have equipped the troops, effectively increasing their combat capabilities. (Author's signature: Xiaofei Pig Observation)
中国新型空投系统试验成功 或已列装新一代空降战车
中国新型空投系统试验成功 或已列装新一代空降战车
47
国产新一代空投系统试验成功
12月19日，航空工业航宇救生装备有限公司成功完成四种新型空投空降系统高原试验，标志着国产空投空降系统战术技术水平向前迈进了一大步。
从相关报道可以看到这四种新型空投空降系统包括一次性空投系统、通用型战车空投系统、轮式战车空投系统和新型主动调姿系统。这些系统研制也表明中国空降兵新一代战车已经或者即将列装部队，有效增强中国空降兵火力、机动能力和突击能力。
国产ZBD-03空降兵战车，它配备国产第一代重装空投系统
伊尔-76空投ZBD-03空降兵战车
中国空降兵目前主力空降战车是ZBD-03空降兵战车。它的战斗全重大约8吨，配备有30毫米机关炮、红箭73反坦克导弹，它的列装标志着中国空降兵纵深机动作战能力发生了飞跃。为了配合ZBD-03战车作战，中国航宇公司研制了国产第一代重装空投系统，装备伊尔-76、运-8运输机，它能够将ZBD-03安全准确空投到预定地点。
随着时间的推迟，空降兵感觉ZBD-03空降兵战车火力、防护能力相对不足，已经难以适应未来战场要求，要求研制第二代空降兵战车。2018年珠海航展国产第二代空降兵战车首次公开亮相，从相关图片来看，国产第二代空降兵战车最大特点就是换装了国产步兵战车武器，包括100毫米滑膛炮、30毫米并列机关炮，前者既能发射高爆杀伤弹，又能发射炮射反坦克导弹，，后者能够发射脱壳穿甲弹，可以灵活对付战场各种目标，作战能力显著增强。另外国产第二代空降兵战车还增加了防护，战斗全重也随之增加。因此底盘长度增加，负重轮增加到6个。战斗全重增加意味着对空投系统也提出更高要求，要求它能够承受更大重量，所以我们看到国产新一代通用型战车空投系统在重量上面取得了突破，也可以从运-20、运-9等新型运输机上面空投。
2018年珠海航展国产新一代空降兵战车公开亮相
此次试验还有轮式战车空投系统，它表明国产新型轮式战车已经列装空降兵。国产空降兵战车列装之后，它还需要一系列配套车辆提供支持，例如侦察巡逻、火力支援等等。2018年珠海航展，国产轮式高机动侦察车公开亮相，它采用4*4驱动，具备较高越野性能和一定防护能力，车顶安装有ZBD-03步兵战车炮塔，武器也与ZBD-03相当，包括1门30毫米机关炮、7.62毫米机枪，热成像观瞄系统，必要的时候也可以发射红旗73反坦克导弹。它主要执行中低强度环境下机动作战、高强度对抗环境下侦察巡逻等任务。中国空降兵装备这种战车之后，执行任务灵活性更好，能够适应更加复杂作战环境。
国产轮式高机动战车
在2018年珠海航展上面，中国空降兵还展出了多型自行火炮，例如轮式107毫米箱式自行火箭炮，它采用猛士三代越野车作为底盘，具备重量轻、机动性能好、火力猛等特点。另外一种则是在ZBD-03基础上改装的120毫米迫榴炮，这种火炮最大特点就是既能象迫击炮那样曲射目标，又能象榴弹炮那样远程打击目标，甚至还能发射破甲弹攻击对方坦克、步兵战车。120毫米迫榴炮是中国陆军合成营主要伴随火力，相关单位为它研制了激光制导炮弹、卫星制导炮弹、末敏弹等等，让它可以精确打击目标，从而有效增强了空降兵伴随火力。由于轮式战车、自行火炮与履带式战车存在根本性区域，需要专用空投系统，所以航宇公司研制了新型轮式战车空投系统。
2018年珠海航展公开国产107毫米轮式自行火箭炮和120毫米迫榴炮
空投系统在空中会受到气流影响，会让战车姿态不稳定，落地的时候发生翻滚，造成翻车，甚至会造成战车失去战斗力。空降兵落地后还需要把战车扶正，损坏之后还要进行修理，耗时费力，容易耽误战机，航宇公司为此研制了主动调姿系统，能够在空中调整战车姿态，避免落地之后翻滚，可以让战车迅速投入战斗。
从这里我们可以看到中国空降兵重装化、机械化建设又向前迈进了一大步，一系列新型战车、自行火炮列装备部队，有效增加了部队作战能力。（作者署名：小飞猪观察）
China's new airdrop system has successfully tested or has installed a new generation of airborne combat vehicles
China's new airdrop system has successfully tested or has installed a new generation of airborne combat vehicles
47
成功 Successful test of domestic new generation airdrop system
On December 19, Aviation Industry Aerospace Lifesaving Equipment Co., Ltd. successfully completed the plateau test of four new air-drop air-drop systems, marking a major step forward in the tactical and technical level of domestic air-drop air-drop systems.
相关 From related reports, we can see that these four new types of airdrop systems include one-off airdrop systems, general-purpose tank airdrop systems, wheeled tank airdrop systems, and new active attitude adjustment systems. The development of these systems also shows that a new generation of Chinese airborne combat vehicles has been or will soon be deployed, effectively enhancing the firepower, maneuverability and assault capabilities of Chinese airborne troops.
Domestic ZBD-03 airborne combat vehicle, which is equipped with the first domestic heavy airdrop system
IL-76 airdrop ZBD-03 airborne combat vehicle
The main airborne combat vehicle of the Chinese Airborne Force is the ZBD-03 Airborne Forced Vehicle. Its combat weight is about 8 tons, and it is equipped with 30mm machine guns and Red Arrow 73 anti-tank missiles. Its installation marks a leap in the depth of mobile combat capability of Chinese airborne forces. In order to cooperate with the ZBD-03 combat vehicle, China Aerospace has developed the first domestically produced heavy-load airdrop system, equipped with the Il-76 and Yun-8 transport aircraft, which can safely and accurately drop the ZBD-03 to the intended location.
With the delay of time, the airborne soldiers felt that the ZBD-03 airborne combat vehicle had relatively insufficient firepower and protection capabilities, and it was already difficult to adapt to future battlefield requirements, requiring the development of a second-generation airborne combat vehicle. The second-generation domestic airborne combat vehicle of the Zhuhai Airshow in 2018 made its first public appearance. From the relevant pictures, the biggest feature of the domestic second-generation airborne combat vehicle is the replacement of domestic infantry fighting vehicle weapons, including 100mm smoothbore guns, 30 The millimeter parallel machine guns can fire both high-explosive anti-explosive bombs and anti-tank missiles, and the latter can fire hull armor-piercing shells, which can flexibly deal with various targets on the battlefield and significantly increase its combat capabilities. In addition, the domestic second-generation airborne combat vehicle also added protection, and the total combat weight also increased. As a result, the length of the chassis increased and the number of road wheels increased to six. The increase in the total combat weight means that higher requirements are placed on the airdrop system, which requires it to be able to withstand greater weight. Therefore, we have seen that the domestic new-generation general-purpose combat vehicle airdrop system has achieved a breakthrough in weight. Airdrop on new transporters such as Yun-9.
The new generation of domestically launched airborne combat vehicles of the Zhuhai Air Show 2018 is unveiled
This test also has a wheeled chariot airdrop system, which indicates that the new domestically produced wheeled chariots have been equipped with airborne troops. After the domestic airborne combat vehicle is installed, it also needs a series of supporting vehicles to provide support, such as reconnaissance and patrol, fire support and so on. At the Zhuhai Air Show in 2018, a domestic wheeled high-mobility reconnaissance vehicle was unveiled. It uses 4 * 4 drive, has high off-road performance and certain protection capabilities. The roof is equipped with a ZBD-03 infantry fighting vehicle turret. 03 is equivalent, including a 30mm machine gun, a 7.62mm machine gun, a thermal imaging sighting system, and a Red Flag 73 anti-tank missile can also be fired when necessary. It mainly performs tasks such as maneuvering in low and medium intensity environments, and reconnaissance and patrol in high intensity confrontation environments. After Chinese airborne troops are equipped with such vehicles, they can perform tasks more flexibly and can adapt to more complex combat environments.
Domestic wheeled high motor vehicle
At the 2018 Zhuhai Air Show, the Chinese Airborne Corps also exhibited multiple self-propelled artillery, such as a wheeled 107mm box-type self-propelled rocket launcher. It uses the third generation of off-road vehicles of the Warriors as its chassis, with light weight, good maneuverability and fierce firepower. Features. The other is a 120mm mortar howitzer based on ZBD-03. The biggest feature of this artillery is that it can both shoot at the target like a mortar, and can strike the target at a long range like a howitzer. The bombs attacked the opposing tanks and infantry fighting vehicles. The 120mm mortar howitzer is the main accompanying firepower of the Chinese Army's synthetic battalion. Relevant units have developed laser-guided artillery shells, satellite-guided artillery shells, and terminal-sensitive shells, etc., so that it can accurately strike the target, thereby effectively enhancing the accompanying firepower of airborne troops. Since there are fundamental areas for wheeled tanks, self-propelled artillery and tracked tanks, a dedicated airdrop system is needed, so Aerospace has developed a new wheeled tank airdrop system.
Introduced domestically produced 107mm wheeled self-propelled rocket launcher and 120mm mortar howitzer at Zhuhai Airshow 2018
The airdrop system will be affected by airflow in the air, which will make the attitude of the chariot unstable, roll over when landing, cause a rollover, and even cause the chariot to lose its combat effectiveness. After the airborne troops land, they need to straighten the tank and repair them after damage. This is time-consuming and easy to delay the fighter. Aerospace has developed an active attitude adjustment system for this, which can adjust the attitude of the tank in the air to avoid rolling after landing , Can make the chariot quickly enter the battle.
From here, we can see that the Chinese airborne troops have been reloaded and mechanized. They have taken a big step forward. A series of new combat vehicles and self-propelled artillery lines have equipped the troops, effectively increasing their combat capabilities. (Author's signature: Xiaofei Pig Observation)
Armored Combat Vehicles can be directly dropped and rapidly ready for combat now. Using new Chinese Y-20 Transport Jets.
TOTALLY FUCK CARE WHATEVER ELECTIONS HELD BY TAIWANESE! We will impose Chinese Rule BY WAR!
https://mil.news.sina.com.cn/china/2019-12-21/doc-iihnzahi9028010.shtml
少将罗援：我们不要被台湾选举打乱自己的节奏
2019年12月21日 13:08 环球网
367
来源：环球时报-环球网作者：王盼盼
2019-12-21 12：53
中国战略文化促进会常务副会长兼秘书长罗援发言 现场图
[环球时报-环球网报道 记者 王盼盼]12月21日，在环球时报2020年年会议题二“两岸大势：2020统一关键节点？”环节中，中国战略文化促进会常务副会长兼秘书长罗援表示，明年有所谓的台湾“总统大选”，我们关注台湾的政党轮替，但是周恩来总理有句名言“台湾问题，求其在我”。我们不要被台湾选举打乱自己的节奏，关键是把我们自己的事情办好。
罗援说，这次台湾选举有很多不确定因素，但有一个确定因素，不管台湾哪个政党当选，绝对不敢公开宣布“台独”。敢宣布“台独”，就意味着它的死亡。任何一个政党也不敢公开宣布统一。前段时间蔡英文说，统一不是台湾的唯一选项，“我跟了一句话，统一必须是台湾的唯一选项，而和平统一才未必是统一的唯一选项”。
罗援说，台湾问题比较严峻，对台湾民意“支持独立还是赞成统一”的调查，取决于很多因素。第一，大陆敢不敢打，第二，美国敢不敢援。美国国会近年来通过多项涉台法案条款，2018年允许美国军舰停靠台湾，2019年允许美国军队与台湾军队进行联合演习，前11个月美国军队9次通过台湾海峡。这些对中美关系颠覆性的破坏，中国必须要有反应。
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https://mil.news.sina.com.cn/china/2019-12-21/doc-iihnzahi9027264.shtml
国务院台办原副主任：最终决定两岸关系走向的是大陆
2019年12月21日 13:03 环球网
68
来源：环球时报-环球网作者：王盼盼
2019-12-21 12：35
国务院台办原副主任王在希发言 现场图
[环球时报-环球网报道 记者王盼盼]12月21日，在环球时报2020年年会议题二“两岸大势：2020统一关键节点？”环节中，国务院台办原副主任王在希表示， 台湾明年的选举是台湾选举史上少有的一次，特别复杂、斗争特别激烈、变化特别无常。从目前的民调情况来看，蔡英文稍占优势，因为她现在在执政，可以动用公权力。此外，民进党内部比较抱团。第三，美国的因素、香港的因素，现在对她比较有利。但从造势情况来看，韩国瑜还是有希望的，冲击力、爆发力比较强。所以谁输谁赢，还存在着很大的变数。
王在希说，他个人的看法是，我们没必要太关注台湾选举谁输谁赢，因为最终决定两岸关系走向的是大陆。连台湾民进党的人士的研究分析报告也认为，两岸关系的主导权在大陆。所以什么时候解决台湾问题，用什么方式来统一，关键取决于我们的实力、我们的决心以及各项准备工作是否到位。从宏观来讲，国民党选胜了，两岸关系会缓和，但是统一的时间更长。民进党继续执政，两岸关系会紧张，但有可能加速统一的进程。
王在希表示，现在民进党配合美国的对华遏制战略，支持“港独分子”闹事，不断给大陆制造麻烦，这样最终将迫使大陆不得不下决心实现祖国统一，解决台湾问题。 历史证明，随着中国的发展强大，统一是历史的必然。“我有两个相信是绝对不可能改变的，第一台湾作为中国领土一部分的地位，不可能改变。第二，两岸走向统一的大趋势绝对不可能改变。中国发展到今天，台湾独立已经没有任何可能。”他说，就连在民进党持续执政的情况下，台湾最新的民调也显示，有49.5%的民众认为两岸最后将走向统一。蔡英文的所谓“保台”只是用来骗局选票的一个伪命题，制造两岸紧张对立，是想维持她的执政地位，但对台湾而言，晚统一不如早统一，被统一不如积极主动。
王在希说：“最后我也想利用这个机会，奉劝台湾当局两句话，第一千万不要低估大陆14亿同胞追求国家统一的坚强意志与决心。第二，依靠美国这个后台就可以抗拒两岸统一是不现实的，美国可以对台湾问题施加影响，但是无法阻挡两岸最后走向统一的步伐。”
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https://mil.news.sina.com.cn/china/2019-12-21/doc-iihnzahi9028010.shtml
Major General Luo Yuan: Let's not be disrupted by Taiwan elections
December 21, 2019 13:08 Global Network
367
Source: Global Times - World Wide Web Author: Wang Panpan
2019-12-21 12:53
Speech by Luo Yuan, Executive Vice President and Secretary General of China Strategic Culture Promotion Association
[Global Times-Global Network Reporter Wang Panpan] On December 21, during the session of the Global Times 2020 Annual Conference, "The Trend of Cross-Straits: 2020 Unification of Key Nodes?", Luo, Executive Vice President and Secretary-General of China Strategic Culture Promotion Association Aid said that next year there will be a so-called "Presidential Election" in Taiwan. We are concerned about the rotation of political parties in Taiwan, but Premier Zhou Enlai famously said, "Taiwan issues, ask me." We must not be disrupted by the Taiwan elections. The key is to do our own business well.
Luo Yuan said that there are many uncertain factors in this election in Taiwan, but there is one certain factor. No matter which political party in Taiwan is elected, he will never dare to publicly declare "Taiwan independence." Dare to declare "Taiwan independence" means its death. No party dared to publicly declare unity. Some time ago, Tsai Ing-wen said that reunification was not the only option for Taiwan. "I followed a sentence. Reunification must be the only option for Taiwan, and peaceful reunification may not be the only option for reunification."
Luo Yuan said that the Taiwan issue is more serious, and the investigation of Taiwan's public opinion "supports independence or supports reunification" depends on many factors. First, the mainland dare not fight, and second, the United States dare not support. The United States Congress has passed a number of Taiwan-related bills in recent years. In 2018, U.S. warships were allowed to dock in Taiwan. In 2019, U.S. and Taiwan military forces were allowed to conduct joint exercises. In the first 11 months, U.S. military forces passed through the Taiwan Strait nine times. China must respond to these disruptive disruptions to Sino-US relations.
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https://mil.news.sina.com.cn/china/2019-12-21/doc-iihnzahi9027264.shtml
Former Deputy Director of the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council: The final decision on cross-strait relations is the mainland
December 21, 2019 13:03 Global Network
68
Source: Global Times - World Wide Web Author: Wang Panpan
2019-12-21 12:35
Former Deputy Director Wang Zaixi of the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council
[Global Times-Global Network Reporter Wang Panpan] On December 21, during the session of the Global Times 2020 Annual Conference, "The Trend of Cross-Straits: Key Nodes of 2020 Unification?" This is a rare event in the history of Taiwan's elections. It is particularly complicated, the struggle is particularly fierce, and the change is very capricious. Judging from the current polls, Cai Yingwen has a slight advantage because she is in power and can use public power. In addition, the DPP is more cliqued. Third, the factors in the United States and Hong Kong are now more favorable to her. However, from the perspective of the momentum, South Korean Yu is still promising, with strong impact and explosive power. So whoever loses and who wins still has a lot of variables.
Wang Zaixi said that his personal opinion is that we do not have to pay too much attention to who wins and loses in Taiwan elections, because the final decision on cross-strait relations is the mainland. Even the research and analysis report of the Taiwanese Democratic Progressive Party believes that the leading role of cross-strait relations lies in the mainland. Therefore, when to solve the Taiwan issue and how to unify it depends on our strength, our determination, and whether all preparations are in place. From a macro perspective, the Kuomintang won the election, cross-strait relations will ease, but the reunification will take longer. The DPP will continue to rule, and cross-strait relations will be tense, but it may accelerate the process of reunification.
Wang Zaixi said that the DPP now cooperates with the United States' containment strategy against China, supports "Hong Kong independence elements" in trouble, and constantly creates trouble for the mainland, which will eventually force the mainland to resolve to realize the reunification of the motherland and solve the Taiwan issue. History has proven that with China's strong development, reunification is a necessity of history. "I have two beliefs that it is absolutely impossible to change. First, the status of Taiwan as part of Chinese territory cannot be changed. Second, the general trend of reunification between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait is absolutely impossible. Any possibility. "He said that even with the DPP's continued ruling, the latest polls in Taiwan also show that 49.5% of the people believe that the two sides of the Taiwan Strait will eventually move towards reunification. Tsai Ing-wen's so-called "protection of Taiwan" is just a pseudo-proposition used to deceive votes, creating tension between the two sides of the strait, in order to maintain her ruling status. However, for Taiwan, reunification is not as good as the early reunification, and it is better to be proactive.
Wang Zaixi said: "Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to urge the Taiwan authorities to say two words. Do not underestimate the strong will and determination of the mainland ’s 1.4 billion compatriots to pursue national reunification. Second, relying on the United States as a background can resist cross-strait reunification. It is unrealistic. The United States can exert influence on the Taiwan issue, but it cannot stop the two sides of the strait from finally moving toward reunification. "
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https://mil.news.sina.com.cn/china/2019-12-21/doc-iihnzahi9028010.shtml
少将罗援：我们不要被台湾选举打乱自己的节奏
2019年12月21日 13:08 环球网
367
来源：环球时报-环球网作者：王盼盼
2019-12-21 12：53
中国战略文化促进会常务副会长兼秘书长罗援发言 现场图
[环球时报-环球网报道 记者 王盼盼]12月21日，在环球时报2020年年会议题二“两岸大势：2020统一关键节点？”环节中，中国战略文化促进会常务副会长兼秘书长罗援表示，明年有所谓的台湾“总统大选”，我们关注台湾的政党轮替，但是周恩来总理有句名言“台湾问题，求其在我”。我们不要被台湾选举打乱自己的节奏，关键是把我们自己的事情办好。
罗援说，这次台湾选举有很多不确定因素，但有一个确定因素，不管台湾哪个政党当选，绝对不敢公开宣布“台独”。敢宣布“台独”，就意味着它的死亡。任何一个政党也不敢公开宣布统一。前段时间蔡英文说，统一不是台湾的唯一选项，“我跟了一句话，统一必须是台湾的唯一选项，而和平统一才未必是统一的唯一选项”。
罗援说，台湾问题比较严峻，对台湾民意“支持独立还是赞成统一”的调查，取决于很多因素。第一，大陆敢不敢打，第二，美国敢不敢援。美国国会近年来通过多项涉台法案条款，2018年允许美国军舰停靠台湾，2019年允许美国军队与台湾军队进行联合演习，前11个月美国军队9次通过台湾海峡。这些对中美关系颠覆性的破坏，中国必须要有反应。
点击进入专题：
https://mil.news.sina.com.cn/china/2019-12-21/doc-iihnzahi9027264.shtml
国务院台办原副主任：最终决定两岸关系走向的是大陆
2019年12月21日 13:03 环球网
68
来源：环球时报-环球网作者：王盼盼
2019-12-21 12：35
国务院台办原副主任王在希发言 现场图
[环球时报-环球网报道 记者王盼盼]12月21日，在环球时报2020年年会议题二“两岸大势：2020统一关键节点？”环节中，国务院台办原副主任王在希表示， 台湾明年的选举是台湾选举史上少有的一次，特别复杂、斗争特别激烈、变化特别无常。从目前的民调情况来看，蔡英文稍占优势，因为她现在在执政，可以动用公权力。此外，民进党内部比较抱团。第三，美国的因素、香港的因素，现在对她比较有利。但从造势情况来看，韩国瑜还是有希望的，冲击力、爆发力比较强。所以谁输谁赢，还存在着很大的变数。
王在希说，他个人的看法是，我们没必要太关注台湾选举谁输谁赢，因为最终决定两岸关系走向的是大陆。连台湾民进党的人士的研究分析报告也认为，两岸关系的主导权在大陆。所以什么时候解决台湾问题，用什么方式来统一，关键取决于我们的实力、我们的决心以及各项准备工作是否到位。从宏观来讲，国民党选胜了，两岸关系会缓和，但是统一的时间更长。民进党继续执政，两岸关系会紧张，但有可能加速统一的进程。
王在希表示，现在民进党配合美国的对华遏制战略，支持“港独分子”闹事，不断给大陆制造麻烦，这样最终将迫使大陆不得不下决心实现祖国统一，解决台湾问题。 历史证明，随着中国的发展强大，统一是历史的必然。“我有两个相信是绝对不可能改变的，第一台湾作为中国领土一部分的地位，不可能改变。第二，两岸走向统一的大趋势绝对不可能改变。中国发展到今天，台湾独立已经没有任何可能。”他说，就连在民进党持续执政的情况下，台湾最新的民调也显示，有49.5%的民众认为两岸最后将走向统一。蔡英文的所谓“保台”只是用来骗局选票的一个伪命题，制造两岸紧张对立，是想维持她的执政地位，但对台湾而言，晚统一不如早统一，被统一不如积极主动。
王在希说：“最后我也想利用这个机会，奉劝台湾当局两句话，第一千万不要低估大陆14亿同胞追求国家统一的坚强意志与决心。第二，依靠美国这个后台就可以抗拒两岸统一是不现实的，美国可以对台湾问题施加影响，但是无法阻挡两岸最后走向统一的步伐。”
点击进入专题：
https://mil.news.sina.com.cn/china/2019-12-21/doc-iihnzahi9028010.shtml
Major General Luo Yuan: Let's not be disrupted by Taiwan elections
December 21, 2019 13:08 Global Network
367
Source: Global Times - World Wide Web Author: Wang Panpan
2019-12-21 12:53
Speech by Luo Yuan, Executive Vice President and Secretary General of China Strategic Culture Promotion Association
[Global Times-Global Network Reporter Wang Panpan] On December 21, during the session of the Global Times 2020 Annual Conference, "The Trend of Cross-Straits: 2020 Unification of Key Nodes?", Luo, Executive Vice President and Secretary-General of China Strategic Culture Promotion Association Aid said that next year there will be a so-called "Presidential Election" in Taiwan. We are concerned about the rotation of political parties in Taiwan, but Premier Zhou Enlai famously said, "Taiwan issues, ask me." We must not be disrupted by the Taiwan elections. The key is to do our own business well.
Luo Yuan said that there are many uncertain factors in this election in Taiwan, but there is one certain factor. No matter which political party in Taiwan is elected, he will never dare to publicly declare "Taiwan independence." Dare to declare "Taiwan independence" means its death. No party dared to publicly declare unity. Some time ago, Tsai Ing-wen said that reunification was not the only option for Taiwan. "I followed a sentence. Reunification must be the only option for Taiwan, and peaceful reunification may not be the only option for reunification."
Luo Yuan said that the Taiwan issue is more serious, and the investigation of Taiwan's public opinion "supports independence or supports reunification" depends on many factors. First, the mainland dare not fight, and second, the United States dare not support. The United States Congress has passed a number of Taiwan-related bills in recent years. In 2018, U.S. warships were allowed to dock in Taiwan. In 2019, U.S. and Taiwan military forces were allowed to conduct joint exercises. In the first 11 months, U.S. military forces passed through the Taiwan Strait nine times. China must respond to these disruptive disruptions to Sino-US relations.
Click to enter the topic:
https://mil.news.sina.com.cn/china/2019-12-21/doc-iihnzahi9027264.shtml
Former Deputy Director of the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council: The final decision on cross-strait relations is the mainland
December 21, 2019 13:03 Global Network
68
Source: Global Times - World Wide Web Author: Wang Panpan
2019-12-21 12:35
Former Deputy Director Wang Zaixi of the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council
[Global Times-Global Network Reporter Wang Panpan] On December 21, during the session of the Global Times 2020 Annual Conference, "The Trend of Cross-Straits: Key Nodes of 2020 Unification?" This is a rare event in the history of Taiwan's elections. It is particularly complicated, the struggle is particularly fierce, and the change is very capricious. Judging from the current polls, Cai Yingwen has a slight advantage because she is in power and can use public power. In addition, the DPP is more cliqued. Third, the factors in the United States and Hong Kong are now more favorable to her. However, from the perspective of the momentum, South Korean Yu is still promising, with strong impact and explosive power. So whoever loses and who wins still has a lot of variables.
Wang Zaixi said that his personal opinion is that we do not have to pay too much attention to who wins and loses in Taiwan elections, because the final decision on cross-strait relations is the mainland. Even the research and analysis report of the Taiwanese Democratic Progressive Party believes that the leading role of cross-strait relations lies in the mainland. Therefore, when to solve the Taiwan issue and how to unify it depends on our strength, our determination, and whether all preparations are in place. From a macro perspective, the Kuomintang won the election, cross-strait relations will ease, but the reunification will take longer. The DPP will continue to rule, and cross-strait relations will be tense, but it may accelerate the process of reunification.
Wang Zaixi said that the DPP now cooperates with the United States' containment strategy against China, supports "Hong Kong independence elements" in trouble, and constantly creates trouble for the mainland, which will eventually force the mainland to resolve to realize the reunification of the motherland and solve the Taiwan issue. History has proven that with China's strong development, reunification is a necessity of history. "I have two beliefs that it is absolutely impossible to change. First, the status of Taiwan as part of Chinese territory cannot be changed. Second, the general trend of reunification between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait is absolutely impossible. Any possibility. "He said that even with the DPP's continued ruling, the latest polls in Taiwan also show that 49.5% of the people believe that the two sides of the Taiwan Strait will eventually move towards reunification. Tsai Ing-wen's so-called "protection of Taiwan" is just a pseudo-proposition used to deceive votes, creating tension between the two sides of the strait, in order to maintain her ruling status. However, for Taiwan, reunification is not as good as the early reunification, and it is better to be proactive.
Wang Zaixi said: "Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to urge the Taiwan authorities to say two words. Do not underestimate the strong will and determination of the mainland ’s 1.4 billion compatriots to pursue national reunification. Second, relying on the United States as a background can resist cross-strait reunification. It is unrealistic. The United States can exert influence on the Taiwan issue, but it cannot stop the two sides of the strait from finally moving toward reunification. "
Click to enter the topic:
https://mil.news.sina.com.cn/china/2019-12-21/doc-iihnzhfz7383689.shtml
2020年是否是统一关键节点 戴旭：要从三个矛盾中来看
2019年12月21日 14:44 环球网
122
来源：环球时报-环球网作者：张丽媛
2019-12-21 13：10
海洋安全与合作研究院院长戴旭发言 现场图
[环球时报-环球网报道 记者 张丽媛]12月21日，在环球时报2020年年会议题二“两岸大势：2020统一关键节点？”中，海洋安全与合作研究院院长戴旭表示， 2020年是否是统一关键节点，要从“中美关系”“两岸关系”“政治与军事的关系”三个矛盾中来看。
戴旭认为，统一台湾是不是到了关键点？先看中美关系在2020年是不是到了关键点。因为台湾问题从一开始就是中美关系的一部分。明年是不是我们统一的关键点，要判断一下2020年中美关系，因为不仅台湾地区领导人明年选举，美国明年也是总统选举，美国国内政局变化会牵动中美关系的变化，中美关系的变化必将影响到两岸关系的变化。
戴旭说，第二组矛盾就是中国大陆与台湾之间的矛盾。他认为，在这样的一组矛盾当中，主动权应该操刀在我，我们是不是认为台湾统一已经到了关键点，首先要从国家利益、全局来考虑。
至于第三组矛盾，戴旭表示是政治与军事的关系。他认为，在这组矛盾当中，不应该把政治军事、经济与军事的关系对立起来，甚至割裂开来。军事与经济一样，都是促进台湾统一的方式与手段，我们没必要把武力统一想象的门槛这么高，或者看的这么严峻，也不要把台湾两党执政形势看的那么严峻。我们要冷静的分析，不管哪个党执政，要分析是不是有利于我们采用什么样的手段，有没有可能成为我们的机会。
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《环球时报》2020年年会
Is 2020 a key node for unification? Dai Xu: Look at the three contradictions
December 21, 2019 14:44 Global Network
122
Source: Global Times - World Wide Web Author: Expenditure Security
2019-12-21 13:10
Dai Xu, Dean of the Institute of Marine Security and Cooperation
[Global Times-Global Network Reporter Zhang Liyuan] On Dec. 21, in the Global Times 2020 Annual Conference agenda item 2, "Cross-Straits Trends: 2020 Unification of Key Nodes?", Dai Xu, Dean of the Ocean Security and Cooperation Research Institute, said in 2020 Whether it is a key point of reunification should be viewed from the three contradictions of "Sino-US relations", "cross-strait relations", and "political and military relations."
Bian Daixu believes that the key point is to reunify Taiwan? Let's first see if Sino-US relations reach a critical point in 2020. Because the Taiwan issue has been part of Sino-US relations since the beginning. Next year is not the key point of our reunification. It is necessary to judge Sino-US relations in 2020, because not only Taiwan ’s leaders will be elected next year, but the United States will also be the presidential election next year. Changes in the domestic political situation in the United States will affect changes in Sino-US relations and changes in Sino-US relations. It will certainly affect the changes in cross-strait relations.
Dai Daixu said that the second group of contradictions is the contradiction between mainland China and Taiwan. He believes that in such a set of contradictions, the initiative should be targeted at me. Do we think that Taiwan's reunification has reached a critical point, we must first consider it from the national interests and the overall situation.
As for the third set of contradictions, Dai Xu said that it is the relationship between politics and military. He believes that in this set of contradictions, the relationship between politics and military, economy and military should not be opposed or even separated. The military and the economy are both ways and means of promoting Taiwan's reunification. We don't need to make the threshold for the unification of armed forces so high, or look so grim, and we should not take the situation of the two parties' governance in Taiwan as grim. We need to analyze calmly. No matter which party is in power, we must analyze whether it is beneficial to us and what kind of methods may be used, and whether it may become our opportunity.
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Global Times 2020 Annual Meeting
2020年是否是统一关键节点 戴旭：要从三个矛盾中来看
2019年12月21日 14:44 环球网
122
来源：环球时报-环球网作者：张丽媛
2019-12-21 13：10
海洋安全与合作研究院院长戴旭发言 现场图
[环球时报-环球网报道 记者 张丽媛]12月21日，在环球时报2020年年会议题二“两岸大势：2020统一关键节点？”中，海洋安全与合作研究院院长戴旭表示， 2020年是否是统一关键节点，要从“中美关系”“两岸关系”“政治与军事的关系”三个矛盾中来看。
戴旭认为，统一台湾是不是到了关键点？先看中美关系在2020年是不是到了关键点。因为台湾问题从一开始就是中美关系的一部分。明年是不是我们统一的关键点，要判断一下2020年中美关系，因为不仅台湾地区领导人明年选举，美国明年也是总统选举，美国国内政局变化会牵动中美关系的变化，中美关系的变化必将影响到两岸关系的变化。
戴旭说，第二组矛盾就是中国大陆与台湾之间的矛盾。他认为，在这样的一组矛盾当中，主动权应该操刀在我，我们是不是认为台湾统一已经到了关键点，首先要从国家利益、全局来考虑。
至于第三组矛盾，戴旭表示是政治与军事的关系。他认为，在这组矛盾当中，不应该把政治军事、经济与军事的关系对立起来，甚至割裂开来。军事与经济一样，都是促进台湾统一的方式与手段，我们没必要把武力统一想象的门槛这么高，或者看的这么严峻，也不要把台湾两党执政形势看的那么严峻。我们要冷静的分析，不管哪个党执政，要分析是不是有利于我们采用什么样的手段，有没有可能成为我们的机会。
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《环球时报》2020年年会
Is 2020 a key node for unification? Dai Xu: Look at the three contradictions
December 21, 2019 14:44 Global Network
122
Source: Global Times - World Wide Web Author: Expenditure Security
2019-12-21 13:10
Dai Xu, Dean of the Institute of Marine Security and Cooperation
[Global Times-Global Network Reporter Zhang Liyuan] On Dec. 21, in the Global Times 2020 Annual Conference agenda item 2, "Cross-Straits Trends: 2020 Unification of Key Nodes?", Dai Xu, Dean of the Ocean Security and Cooperation Research Institute, said in 2020 Whether it is a key point of reunification should be viewed from the three contradictions of "Sino-US relations", "cross-strait relations", and "political and military relations."
Bian Daixu believes that the key point is to reunify Taiwan? Let's first see if Sino-US relations reach a critical point in 2020. Because the Taiwan issue has been part of Sino-US relations since the beginning. Next year is not the key point of our reunification. It is necessary to judge Sino-US relations in 2020, because not only Taiwan ’s leaders will be elected next year, but the United States will also be the presidential election next year. Changes in the domestic political situation in the United States will affect changes in Sino-US relations and changes in Sino-US relations. It will certainly affect the changes in cross-strait relations.
Dai Daixu said that the second group of contradictions is the contradiction between mainland China and Taiwan. He believes that in such a set of contradictions, the initiative should be targeted at me. Do we think that Taiwan's reunification has reached a critical point, we must first consider it from the national interests and the overall situation.
As for the third set of contradictions, Dai Xu said that it is the relationship between politics and military. He believes that in this set of contradictions, the relationship between politics and military, economy and military should not be opposed or even separated. The military and the economy are both ways and means of promoting Taiwan's reunification. We don't need to make the threshold for the unification of armed forces so high, or look so grim, and we should not take the situation of the two parties' governance in Taiwan as grim. We need to analyze calmly. No matter which party is in power, we must analyze whether it is beneficial to us and what kind of methods may be used, and whether it may become our opportunity.
Click to enter the topic:
Global Times 2020 Annual Meeting
Pentagon's US Navy used a bunch of fat ass Niggers and Chow Ang Mohs to MANUALLY WALK DOWN Aircraft Carrier Decks to sweep away tiny objects that would be sucked up by jet engines and crash their planes GVGT!
PRIMITIVE SAVAGE MANUAL DOG WORKS! Just Alike Ah Nehs / Bangalah jobs! Slow Unreliable!
http://slide.mil.news.sina.com.cn/h/slide_8_203_74887.html#p=4
"煎饼"摊的好！国产航母山东舰公开海试画面亮点多多
支持 键翻阅图片 列表查看
全屏观看
2019.12.21 00:33:32
002航母船体和船舶装置、动力系统、电力系统、船舶保障系统、航空保障系统、作战系统及编队作战指挥系统等主要装备战技术性能指标满足技术规格书和试验大纲要求，建造质量满足设计指标；接舰培训已基本完成，舰员能独立操作执掌装备，具备交舰条件。
"Pancakes" stand well! Domestic aircraft carrier Shandong ship open sea test screen highlights
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Watch in full screen
2019.12.21 00:33:32
4/10
002 aircraft carrier hull and ship equipment, power system, power system, ship support system, aviation support system, combat system and formation combat command system and other major equipment combat technical performance indicators meet technical specifications and test outline requirements, construction quality meets design indicators; The reception training has been basically completed, and the crew can independently operate and control the equipment and have the conditions for delivery.
I am aware that Chinese will soon use AI AUTOMATED ROBOTIC with VISION and VACCUM SWEEPER, which a single machine will sweep up runway within 5 mins! Yankee Chow Ang Moh & Niggers took at least 30mins with about 100 useless slow fat ass Navy Pigs!
The GIF is from PLA's latest ShanDong 山东 aircraft carrier 100% made in China.
China says even if fucking Dotard gave all of US Navy's 12 aircraft carriers to Taiwan also will never be able to prevent PLA to conquer Taiwan and 武统 the fuck of it!
This simple strategic fact is crystal clear because Taiwan is only 200~300km from mainland China, and thousands of Chinese DongFeng (DF) missiles cover this range 20X over, and no warship can escape sinking fate. 12 US carriers are far too little number of targets for Rocket Army to sink. Too small numbers and too near to even give a fucking thought.
https://mil.news.sina.com.cn/china/2019-12-21/doc-iihnzahi9065475.shtml
乔良：即使美12艘航母全卖给台湾 也不能保证其独立
2019年12月21日 17:03 环球网
394
来源：环球网作者：左甜
2019-12-21 16：47
国防大学教授、少将乔良
[环球网报道 记者 左甜]在21日举行的环球时报2020年年会上，国防大学教授、少将乔良在接受环球网记者采访时表示，即使美国把12艘航母全部卖给台湾，也不能保证他们独立。
乔良表示，美国人卖给台湾武器，除了凭空造一张对付中国的牌外，就是让台湾当冤大头，给美国人送钱。对大陆和台湾的关系的改变，起不了根本性作用。
乔良认为，美国卖多少武器给台湾都是没有意义的。“即使美国把12艘航母全部卖给台湾，仍然不能保证台湾独立。”
乔良还表示，台湾没有任何独立的本钱和能力，也别想指望美国人在关键时刻，为台湾流血。美国绝不会为台湾“火中取栗”。
乔良还提到20年前在接受台湾记者采访时的一次表态。“台湾要想独立只有一个办法，把台湾岛在水下从根部锯掉，然后让台湾岛向东漂移600公里以上，那台湾‘独立’的可能性就比较一大了。如果没有，台独就只能是一种幻想。”
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Qiao Liang: Even if all 12 US aircraft carriers are sold to Taiwan, their independence cannot be guaranteed
December 21, 2019 17:03 Global Network
394
Source: Global Network of: sweet left
2019-12-21 16:47
乔 Qiao Liang, Professor and Major General of National Defense University
[Global Network Reporter Zuo Tian] At the Global Times 2020 Annual Meeting held on the 21st, National Defense University professor and major general Qiao Liang said in an interview with a Global Network reporter that even if the United States sells all 12 aircraft carriers to Taiwan, it cannot Keep them independent.
Bian Qiaoliang said that in addition to making a card against China, Americans sold weapons to Taiwan to make Taiwan an injustice and give Americans money. Changes in the relationship between the mainland and Taiwan cannot play a fundamental role.
Qi Qiaoliang believes that it doesn't make sense to sell as much weapons as possible to Taiwan. "Even if the United States sells all 12 aircraft carriers to Taiwan, it still cannot guarantee Taiwan independence."
He Qiaoliang also said that Taiwan does not have any independent capital and ability, and do not expect Americans to bleed for Taiwan at a critical moment. The United States will never "pull chestnuts" for Taiwan.
Qi Qiaoliang also mentioned a statement made in an interview with a Taiwan reporter 20 years ago. "Taiwan has only one way to become independent. Saw Taiwan Island from the roots under water, and then let Taiwan Island drift more than 600 kilometers eastward. The possibility of Taiwan's" independence "is greater. If not, Taiwan independence will It can only be a fantasy. "
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This simple strategic fact is crystal clear because Taiwan is only 200~300km from mainland China, and thousands of Chinese DongFeng (DF) missiles cover this range 20X over, and no warship can escape sinking fate. 12 US carriers are far too little number of targets for Rocket Army to sink. Too small numbers and too near to even give a fucking thought.
https://mil.news.sina.com.cn/china/2019-12-21/doc-iihnzahi9065475.shtml
乔良：即使美12艘航母全卖给台湾 也不能保证其独立
2019年12月21日 17:03 环球网
394
来源：环球网作者：左甜
2019-12-21 16：47
国防大学教授、少将乔良
[环球网报道 记者 左甜]在21日举行的环球时报2020年年会上，国防大学教授、少将乔良在接受环球网记者采访时表示，即使美国把12艘航母全部卖给台湾，也不能保证他们独立。
乔良表示，美国人卖给台湾武器，除了凭空造一张对付中国的牌外，就是让台湾当冤大头，给美国人送钱。对大陆和台湾的关系的改变，起不了根本性作用。
乔良认为，美国卖多少武器给台湾都是没有意义的。“即使美国把12艘航母全部卖给台湾，仍然不能保证台湾独立。”
乔良还表示，台湾没有任何独立的本钱和能力，也别想指望美国人在关键时刻，为台湾流血。美国绝不会为台湾“火中取栗”。
乔良还提到20年前在接受台湾记者采访时的一次表态。“台湾要想独立只有一个办法，把台湾岛在水下从根部锯掉，然后让台湾岛向东漂移600公里以上，那台湾‘独立’的可能性就比较一大了。如果没有，台独就只能是一种幻想。”
点击进入专题：
Qiao Liang: Even if all 12 US aircraft carriers are sold to Taiwan, their independence cannot be guaranteed
December 21, 2019 17:03 Global Network
394
Source: Global Network of: sweet left
2019-12-21 16:47
乔 Qiao Liang, Professor and Major General of National Defense University
[Global Network Reporter Zuo Tian] At the Global Times 2020 Annual Meeting held on the 21st, National Defense University professor and major general Qiao Liang said in an interview with a Global Network reporter that even if the United States sells all 12 aircraft carriers to Taiwan, it cannot Keep them independent.
Bian Qiaoliang said that in addition to making a card against China, Americans sold weapons to Taiwan to make Taiwan an injustice and give Americans money. Changes in the relationship between the mainland and Taiwan cannot play a fundamental role.
Qi Qiaoliang believes that it doesn't make sense to sell as much weapons as possible to Taiwan. "Even if the United States sells all 12 aircraft carriers to Taiwan, it still cannot guarantee Taiwan independence."
He Qiaoliang also said that Taiwan does not have any independent capital and ability, and do not expect Americans to bleed for Taiwan at a critical moment. The United States will never "pull chestnuts" for Taiwan.
Qi Qiaoliang also mentioned a statement made in an interview with a Taiwan reporter 20 years ago. "Taiwan has only one way to become independent. Saw Taiwan Island from the roots under water, and then let Taiwan Island drift more than 600 kilometers eastward. The possibility of Taiwan's" independence "is greater. If not, Taiwan independence will It can only be a fantasy. "
Click to enter the topic:
http://www.sohu.com/a/361944594_603765?spm=smpc.mil-home.fspic.5.1576958937268T5kdsgm
无悔的军旅人生
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原创 把美国警告当空气，马杜罗大胆提议：用岛偿还中国1300亿美元债务
2019-12-21 21:36
我们知道，一直以来，美国都喜欢在全球范围内奉行他们所谓的霸权主义那一套。不少国家也都跟着遭殃，委内瑞拉应该算是最惨的一个了。委内瑞拉是一个小国家，为什么会让美国如此关注呢？因为马杜罗的连任，而美国不希望马杜罗继续连任。美国联合其他美洲国家一同向委内瑞拉发难，希望马杜罗主动让出总统的位置。马杜罗本人也是十分的委屈，毕竟这个位置是自己光明正大得来的，也是委内瑞拉民心所向。
马杜罗清楚，如果让美国奸计得逞，那么委内瑞拉就会彻底沦为美国的附属国，主权将不复存在。委内瑞拉也因此遭到很多国家的集体针对，委内瑞拉的经济发展水平也是一落千丈。物价上涨，全国出现了通货膨胀的局面。尽管这样的打击马杜罗可以撑得下去，但是委内瑞拉的民众不干了，他们最看重的就是经济，能过上富裕舒适的生活，即便是他们的主权被美国握在手里。
所以，如今因为马杜罗一人的原因让他们生活不好，便把所有的怨怒发泄到了马杜罗的身上。委内瑞拉唯一的办法就是向其他国家求助，马杜罗最先想到的就是中国。但委内瑞拉还欠中国1300亿美元，该如何开这个口呢？这可愁坏老杜了。15年前的时候当时委内瑞拉的总统表示希望能够用岛来偿还这笔债务，美国知道此事后，用尽办法阻止了交易的进行。
毕竟委内瑞拉和美国之间距离非常近，如果岛屿成了中国的，中国在上面部署军事力量的话，美国可就欲哭无泪了。但是这次，马杜罗仍然大胆提议，就用岛屿偿还中国1300亿美元的债务，你们觉得，如果用1300亿美元，买委内瑞拉一块岛屿划算吗？返回搜狐，查看更多
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With the US warning in the air, Maduro boldly proposes: use the island to repay China's $ 130 billion debt
2019-12-21 21:36
We know that the United States has always enjoyed what they call hegemonism on a global scale. Many countries have also suffered, and Venezuela should be considered the worst. Venezuela is a small country. Why does the United States pay so much attention? Because Maduro's re-election, the United States does not want Maduro to continue to be re-elected. The United States, together with other American nations, is attacking Venezuela and hopes that Maduro will give up the presidency. Maduro himself is also very grieved. After all, this position is obtained by his own fairness, and it is also the aspiration of the Venezuelan people.
Maduro knows that if the United States is allowed to succeed, Venezuela will be completely reduced to a subsidiary state of the United States, and sovereignty will no longer exist. As a result, Venezuela has been collectively targeted by many countries, and Venezuela's economic development level has also plummeted. Prices have risen, and inflation has emerged across the country. Although such a blow against Maduro can be sustained, the people in Venezuela are quitting. What they value most is the economy. They can lead a rich and comfortable life, even if their sovereignty is held by the United States.
Therefore, now that Maduro's life is making them bad, they have vented all their anger on Maduro. The only way for Venezuela is to ask other countries for help. Maduro first thought of China. But Venezuela still owes China $ 130 billion, how to open this mouth? This is sad old Lao Du. Fifteen years ago, the then Venezuelan president expressed his hope that the island could be used to repay the debt. After the United States knew this, it tried every means to prevent the transaction from proceeding.
After all, the distance between Venezuela and the United States is very close. If the island becomes Chinese and China deploys military power on it, the United States will cry without tears. But this time, Maduro still boldly proposed to use the islands to repay China's 130 billion US dollars of debt. Do you think it would be worthwhile to buy an island in Venezuela with 130 billion US dollars? Back to Sohu, see more
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原创 把美国警告当空气，马杜罗大胆提议：用岛偿还中国1300亿美元债务
2019-12-21 21:36
我们知道，一直以来，美国都喜欢在全球范围内奉行他们所谓的霸权主义那一套。不少国家也都跟着遭殃，委内瑞拉应该算是最惨的一个了。委内瑞拉是一个小国家，为什么会让美国如此关注呢？因为马杜罗的连任，而美国不希望马杜罗继续连任。美国联合其他美洲国家一同向委内瑞拉发难，希望马杜罗主动让出总统的位置。马杜罗本人也是十分的委屈，毕竟这个位置是自己光明正大得来的，也是委内瑞拉民心所向。
马杜罗清楚，如果让美国奸计得逞，那么委内瑞拉就会彻底沦为美国的附属国，主权将不复存在。委内瑞拉也因此遭到很多国家的集体针对，委内瑞拉的经济发展水平也是一落千丈。物价上涨，全国出现了通货膨胀的局面。尽管这样的打击马杜罗可以撑得下去，但是委内瑞拉的民众不干了，他们最看重的就是经济，能过上富裕舒适的生活，即便是他们的主权被美国握在手里。
所以，如今因为马杜罗一人的原因让他们生活不好，便把所有的怨怒发泄到了马杜罗的身上。委内瑞拉唯一的办法就是向其他国家求助，马杜罗最先想到的就是中国。但委内瑞拉还欠中国1300亿美元，该如何开这个口呢？这可愁坏老杜了。15年前的时候当时委内瑞拉的总统表示希望能够用岛来偿还这笔债务，美国知道此事后，用尽办法阻止了交易的进行。
毕竟委内瑞拉和美国之间距离非常近，如果岛屿成了中国的，中国在上面部署军事力量的话，美国可就欲哭无泪了。但是这次，马杜罗仍然大胆提议，就用岛屿偿还中国1300亿美元的债务，你们觉得，如果用1300亿美元，买委内瑞拉一块岛屿划算吗？返回搜狐，查看更多
Military life without regrets
2062 articles
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With the US warning in the air, Maduro boldly proposes: use the island to repay China's $ 130 billion debt
2019-12-21 21:36
We know that the United States has always enjoyed what they call hegemonism on a global scale. Many countries have also suffered, and Venezuela should be considered the worst. Venezuela is a small country. Why does the United States pay so much attention? Because Maduro's re-election, the United States does not want Maduro to continue to be re-elected. The United States, together with other American nations, is attacking Venezuela and hopes that Maduro will give up the presidency. Maduro himself is also very grieved. After all, this position is obtained by his own fairness, and it is also the aspiration of the Venezuelan people.
Maduro knows that if the United States is allowed to succeed, Venezuela will be completely reduced to a subsidiary state of the United States, and sovereignty will no longer exist. As a result, Venezuela has been collectively targeted by many countries, and Venezuela's economic development level has also plummeted. Prices have risen, and inflation has emerged across the country. Although such a blow against Maduro can be sustained, the people in Venezuela are quitting. What they value most is the economy. They can lead a rich and comfortable life, even if their sovereignty is held by the United States.
Therefore, now that Maduro's life is making them bad, they have vented all their anger on Maduro. The only way for Venezuela is to ask other countries for help. Maduro first thought of China. But Venezuela still owes China $ 130 billion, how to open this mouth? This is sad old Lao Du. Fifteen years ago, the then Venezuelan president expressed his hope that the island could be used to repay the debt. After the United States knew this, it tried every means to prevent the transaction from proceeding.
After all, the distance between Venezuela and the United States is very close. If the island becomes Chinese and China deploys military power on it, the United States will cry without tears. But this time, Maduro still boldly proposed to use the islands to repay China's 130 billion US dollars of debt. Do you think it would be worthwhile to buy an island in Venezuela with 130 billion US dollars? Back to Sohu, see more
Why not iran? Iran has nothing to lose.
Thr island is too small. One mega blast and its gone. Building a base on a island in venezuela is not the same as in south china sea.
Thr island is too small. One mega blast and its gone. Building a base on a island in venezuela is not the same as in south china sea.
China cannot afford to fight a war on three fronts.
Taiwan, hong kong and xinjiang.
Look what happened to hitler and nspolean when they tried this.
Taiwan, hong kong and xinjiang.
Look what happened to hitler and nspolean when they tried this.
China is STRONG ENOUGH to go on 10 or 12 war front but too sadly there is only 1 USA to deal with and once finished off USA, there is nothing capable of even posing a position against China. Taiwan by the book is just a matter of dozen hours. Even if there were 2X USA in this world not able to stop PLA from taking Taiwan.
All the rest are tiny cakes that does not need PLA at all. Xinjiang & HK just a quarter of Xijinping mata forces will be sufficient to flat them out.
Xinjiang and hk aren’t wars.
If Tiongs backside itchy go and invade China haha then get ready for the US abs it’s allies......it’ll be Opium War redux
Maybe hk will be re- lease to amdk again after that haha fucking Tiongs go fuck spider
武统？舞你妈的桶！
China only has a couple of crappy aircraft carriers (floating metal coffins). Paper tigers, parade toys for Winnie.
Today Chinese forces are matchless already. Not have to be in equal numbers nor weapons, but just enough advantage that can wipe out US fleets and bases globally within a brutal shock surprise assault is enough and DF missile alone is sufficient to deliver this result 200% sure. Hypersonic & Petawatt Laser etc still ADDITIONAL MULTIPLE LAYERS OF CERTAINTY.
USA has IN TOTAL INADEQUATE STRENGTH TO PUT DOWN CHINA, within all out war in ANY CASE, China will still exist strongly after war but USA can no longer be found.
Dun be silly.
One pacific carrier fleet is more than enough to handle weak Tiongs.
Whole USA Navy will become ZERO within 1 hr of war with China.
All of Entire US Navy FLEET can be sunk by PLA 100% certainty with many times over killing fire power within less than 1 hour, (DF missile flight time). Just by only pressing buttons. Any surface warships above 5000 tones or 25 meter length REGARDLESS WHERE THEY ARE ON THE PLANET EARTH's Surface. All necessary track and detection and fire control coverage are established already.
https://mil.news.sina.com.cn/2020-01-01/doc-iihnzahk1330311.shtml
台媒：3艘战舰护卫山东舰在南海相遇美军林肯号航母
台媒：3艘战舰护卫山东舰在南海相遇美军林肯号航母
1,232
截至目前，关于中美航母南海相遇的消息，没有得到两国官方证实。
有台媒1月1日援引社交媒体推特上流传的一张卫星照片称，在2019年圣诞节当天，刚刚服役的解放军“山东舰”航母编队，在准备北上前往台湾海峡途中，在南海与美国海军的“林肯”号航母编队相遇。
台媒报道截图：在卫星照片中，山东舰航母编队位于左上方（黄色字体三角连线区域），美军林肯号及护航巡洋舰位于右下方（白色字体）
上述台媒提供的卫星照片显示，面对美军“林肯”号，“山东舰”航母编队组成三角队形，由3艘战舰护卫位于C位的山东舰。
该台媒声称，当时“林肯”号航母由CG-62“钱斯勒斯维尔”号提康德罗加级导弹巡洋舰护航。而在附近海域还有预计前往印度洋的解放军海军第34批护航编队，该编队由银川舰、运城舰，以及综合补给舰微山湖舰组成。这张卫星照片疑似由大陆的“高分三号”卫星拍摄。
据早前报道，中国海军首艘国产航空母舰于2019年12月17日在三亚某军港正式服役，命名山东舰，舷号17。并在当月26日在编队舰艇护卫下由南而北通过台湾海峡。
山东舰（资料图） 图源：中国军网
环球网记者查询，据美国海军学会（USNI）网站的报道显示，美军林肯号航母编队完成中东地区战备部署后，大约在2019年12月23日通过马六甲海峡，进入南海，到12月30日已经航行到菲律宾以东海域。
截至目前，关于中美航母南海相遇的消息，还没有进一步的细节，也没有得到两国官方证实。
2019年12月23日、30日，美国林肯号航母编队位置示意图。图片来源：美国海军学会网站。
有军事分析人士对环球网记者表示，如果确有其事，应该说这只是偶然个例。不过，随着中国航母越来越多执行远航任务，未来中美航母在大洋相遇的情形，可能会越来越多。
来源：环球网军事/张海潮
Taiwanese media: 3 battleships escort Shandong ship meet US aircraft carrier Lincoln in the South China Sea
Taiwanese media: 3 battleships escort Shandong ship meet US aircraft carrier Lincoln in the South China Sea
1,232
As of now, the news of the meeting between the Chinese and American aircraft carriers in the South China Sea has not been officially confirmed by the two countries.
A Taiwan media quoted a satellite photo circulating on social media Twitter on January 1 stating that on Christmas Day 2019, the PLA Navy ’s “Shandong Ship” carrier group that had just been in service was preparing to go north to the Taiwan Strait in the South China Sea with the US Navy The aircraft carrier "Lincoln" met.
Taiwan media report screenshot: In the satellite photo, the Shandong carrier aircraft carrier formation is located at the upper left (yellow font triangle connecting area), the USS Lincoln and the escort cruiser are located at the lower right (white font)
The satellite photos provided by the above Taiwanese media show that in the face of the USS "Lincoln", the "Shandong Ship" aircraft carrier formation formed a triangular formation, and 3 battleships escorted the Shandong ship at the C position.
The Taiwanese media claimed that the "Lincoln" carrier was escorted by the CG-62 "Chancelersville" Ticonderoga class cruiser. In the nearby waters, there is also the 34th escort formation of the PLA Navy, which is expected to go to the Indian Ocean. The formation is composed of Yinchuan ship, Yuncheng ship, and integrated supply ship Weishanhu ship. This satellite photo is suspected to have been taken by the mainland's "High Score Three" satellite.
According to an earlier report, the first domestic aircraft carrier of the Chinese Navy was officially commissioned at a military port in Sanya on December 17, 2019, and named the Shandong ship, ship number 17. On the 26th of the same month, they passed through the Taiwan Strait from south to north under the escort of formation ships.
Shandong Ship (data map) Source: China Military Network
A reporter from Global.com reported that, according to a report from the website of the United States Naval Institute (USNI), after the US Army Lincoln ’s aircraft carrier formation completed its deployment in the Middle East, it entered the South China Sea through the Strait of Malacca on December 23, 2019. By December 30, Sail into the waters east of the Philippines.
As of now, there has been no further details about the encounter between the Chinese and American aircraft carriers in the South China Sea, nor has it been officially confirmed by the two countries.
On December 23 and 30, 2019, the location of the US aircraft carrier Lincoln. Image source: U.S. Naval Institute website.
Some military analysts told the Global Network reporter that if it does happen, it should be said that this is just an accident. However, with more and more Chinese aircraft carriers performing long-haul missions, there may be more and more situations where Chinese and American aircraft carriers meet in the ocean in the future.
Source: Global Network Military / Zhang Haichao
台媒：3艘战舰护卫山东舰在南海相遇美军林肯号航母
台媒：3艘战舰护卫山东舰在南海相遇美军林肯号航母
1,232
截至目前，关于中美航母南海相遇的消息，没有得到两国官方证实。
有台媒1月1日援引社交媒体推特上流传的一张卫星照片称，在2019年圣诞节当天，刚刚服役的解放军“山东舰”航母编队，在准备北上前往台湾海峡途中，在南海与美国海军的“林肯”号航母编队相遇。
台媒报道截图：在卫星照片中，山东舰航母编队位于左上方（黄色字体三角连线区域），美军林肯号及护航巡洋舰位于右下方（白色字体）
上述台媒提供的卫星照片显示，面对美军“林肯”号，“山东舰”航母编队组成三角队形，由3艘战舰护卫位于C位的山东舰。
该台媒声称，当时“林肯”号航母由CG-62“钱斯勒斯维尔”号提康德罗加级导弹巡洋舰护航。而在附近海域还有预计前往印度洋的解放军海军第34批护航编队，该编队由银川舰、运城舰，以及综合补给舰微山湖舰组成。这张卫星照片疑似由大陆的“高分三号”卫星拍摄。
据早前报道，中国海军首艘国产航空母舰于2019年12月17日在三亚某军港正式服役，命名山东舰，舷号17。并在当月26日在编队舰艇护卫下由南而北通过台湾海峡。
山东舰（资料图） 图源：中国军网
环球网记者查询，据美国海军学会（USNI）网站的报道显示，美军林肯号航母编队完成中东地区战备部署后，大约在2019年12月23日通过马六甲海峡，进入南海，到12月30日已经航行到菲律宾以东海域。
截至目前，关于中美航母南海相遇的消息，还没有进一步的细节，也没有得到两国官方证实。
2019年12月23日、30日，美国林肯号航母编队位置示意图。图片来源：美国海军学会网站。
有军事分析人士对环球网记者表示，如果确有其事，应该说这只是偶然个例。不过，随着中国航母越来越多执行远航任务，未来中美航母在大洋相遇的情形，可能会越来越多。
来源：环球网军事/张海潮
Taiwanese media: 3 battleships escort Shandong ship meet US aircraft carrier Lincoln in the South China Sea
Taiwanese media: 3 battleships escort Shandong ship meet US aircraft carrier Lincoln in the South China Sea
1,232
As of now, the news of the meeting between the Chinese and American aircraft carriers in the South China Sea has not been officially confirmed by the two countries.
A Taiwan media quoted a satellite photo circulating on social media Twitter on January 1 stating that on Christmas Day 2019, the PLA Navy ’s “Shandong Ship” carrier group that had just been in service was preparing to go north to the Taiwan Strait in the South China Sea with the US Navy The aircraft carrier "Lincoln" met.
Taiwan media report screenshot: In the satellite photo, the Shandong carrier aircraft carrier formation is located at the upper left (yellow font triangle connecting area), the USS Lincoln and the escort cruiser are located at the lower right (white font)
The satellite photos provided by the above Taiwanese media show that in the face of the USS "Lincoln", the "Shandong Ship" aircraft carrier formation formed a triangular formation, and 3 battleships escorted the Shandong ship at the C position.
The Taiwanese media claimed that the "Lincoln" carrier was escorted by the CG-62 "Chancelersville" Ticonderoga class cruiser. In the nearby waters, there is also the 34th escort formation of the PLA Navy, which is expected to go to the Indian Ocean. The formation is composed of Yinchuan ship, Yuncheng ship, and integrated supply ship Weishanhu ship. This satellite photo is suspected to have been taken by the mainland's "High Score Three" satellite.
According to an earlier report, the first domestic aircraft carrier of the Chinese Navy was officially commissioned at a military port in Sanya on December 17, 2019, and named the Shandong ship, ship number 17. On the 26th of the same month, they passed through the Taiwan Strait from south to north under the escort of formation ships.
Shandong Ship (data map) Source: China Military Network
A reporter from Global.com reported that, according to a report from the website of the United States Naval Institute (USNI), after the US Army Lincoln ’s aircraft carrier formation completed its deployment in the Middle East, it entered the South China Sea through the Strait of Malacca on December 23, 2019. By December 30, Sail into the waters east of the Philippines.
As of now, there has been no further details about the encounter between the Chinese and American aircraft carriers in the South China Sea, nor has it been officially confirmed by the two countries.
On December 23 and 30, 2019, the location of the US aircraft carrier Lincoln. Image source: U.S. Naval Institute website.
Some military analysts told the Global Network reporter that if it does happen, it should be said that this is just an accident. However, with more and more Chinese aircraft carriers performing long-haul missions, there may be more and more situations where Chinese and American aircraft carriers meet in the ocean in the future.
Source: Global Network Military / Zhang Haichao
https://www.nytimes.com/2018/08/29/world/asia/china-navy-aircraft-carrier-pacific.html
With Ships and Missiles, China Is Ready to Challenge U.S. Navy in Pacific
China’s first aircraft carrier, the Liaoning, at sea in April. First launched by the Soviet Union in 1988, it was sold for $20 million to a Chinese investor who said it would become a floating casino, though he was in reality acting on behalf of the People’s Liberation Army Navy.Credit...Agence France-Presse — Getty Images
By Steven Lee Myers
DALIAN, China — In April, on the 69th anniversary of the founding of China’s Navy, the country’s first domestically built aircraft carrier stirred from its berth in the port city of Dalian on the Bohai Sea, tethered to tugboats for a test of its seaworthiness.
“China’s first homegrown aircraft carrier just moved a bit, and the United States, Japan and India squirmed,” a military news website crowed, referring to the three nations China views as its main rivals.
https://nationalinterest.org/blog/t...have-351-navy-ships-bigger-america-navy-18940
The National Interest
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January 4, 2017 Topic: Security Blog Brand: The Buzz Tags: ChinaChinese NavyNavyMilitaryTechnology
Report: China Could Have 351 Navy Ships (Bigger America' Navy) By 2020
What can Washington do about it?
by Kris Osborn
Ongoing U.S.-China tensions in the South China Sea regarding Chinese artificial island-building are leading many at the Pentagon to sharpen their focus upon the rapid pace of Chinese Naval modernization and expansion.
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While Chinese naval technology may still be substantially behind current U.S. platforms, the equation could change dramatically over the next several decades because the Chinese are reportedly working on a handful of high-tech next-generation ships, weapons and naval systems.
China has plans to grow its navy to 351 ships by 2020 as the Chinese continue to develop their military’s ability to strike global targets, according to a recent Congressional report.
The 2014 U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission recommended to Congress that the U.S. Navy respond by building more ships and increase its presence in the Pacific region – a strategy the U.S. military has already started.
Opponents of this strategy point out that the U.S. has 11 aircraft carriers, the Chinese have one and China's one carrier still lacks an aircraft wing capable of operating off of a carrier deck. However, several recent reports have cited satellite photos showing that China is now building its own indigenous aircraft carriers. Ultimately, the Chinese plan to acquire four aircraft carriers, the reports say.
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The commission cites platforms and weapons systems the Chinese are developing, which change the strategic calculus regarding how U.S. carriers and surface ships might need to operate in the region.
These include the LUYANG III, a new class of Chinese destroyer slated to enter the fleet this year. These ships are being engineered with vertically-launched, long-range anti-ship cruise missiles, the commission said. The new destroyer will carry an extended-range variant of the HHQ-9 surface-to-air missile, among other weapons, the report says.
Furthermore, the Chinese may already be beginning construction on several of their own indigenous aircraft carriers. China currently has one carrier, the Ukranian-built Liaoning. It is not expected to have an operational carrier air wing until sometime this year, according to the report.
The Chinese are currently testing and developing a new, carrier-based fighter aircraft called the J-15.
Regarding amphibious assault ships, the Chinese are planning to add several more YUZHAO LPDs, amphibs which can carry 800 troops, four helicopters and up to 20 armored vehicles, the report said.
The Chinese are also working on development of a new Type 055 cruiser equipped with land-attack missiles, lasers and rail-gun weapons, according to the review.
China’s surface fleet is also bolstered by production of at least 60 smaller, fast-moving HOBEI-glass guided missile patrol boats and ongoing deliveries of JIANGDAO light frigates armed with naval guns, torpedoes and anti-ship cruise missiles.
The commission also says Chinese modernization plans call for a sharp increase in attack submarines and nuclear-armed submarines or SSBNs. Chinese SSBNs are now able to patrol with nuclear-armed JL-2 missiles able to strike targets more than 4,500 nautical miles.
The Chinese are currently working on a new, modernized SSBN platform as well as a long-range missile, the JL-3, the commission says.
While the commission says the exact amount of Chinese military spending is difficult to identify, China’s projected defense spending for 2014 is cited at $131 billion, approximately 12.2 percent greater than 2013. This figure is about one sixth of what the U.S. spends annually.
The Chinese defense budget has increased by double digits since 1989, the commission states, resulting in annual defense spending doubling since 2008, according to the report.
Some members of Congress, including the House Armed Services Committee's Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee Chairman Rep. Randy Forbes, R-Va., are advocating for both a larger U.S. Navy and a stronger U.S. posture toward China's behavior in the region.
Kris Osborn became the Managing Editor of Scout Warrior in August of 2015. His role with Scout.com includes managing content on the Scout Warrior site and generating independently sourced original material. Scout Warrior is aimed at providing engaging, substantial military-specific content covering a range of key areas such as weapons, emerging or next-generation technologies and issues of relevance to the military. Just prior to coming to Scout Warrior, Osborn served as an Associate Editor at the Military.com. Osborn previously served at the Pentagon as a Highly Qualified Expert with the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army - Acquisition, Logistics & Technology. Osborn has also worked as an anchor and on-air military specialist at CNN and CNN Headline News. This story originally appeared in Scout Warrior.
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The China Challenge
The China challenge
Ruling the Waves
China’s vast fleet is tipping the balance in the Pacific
The Chinese navy, which is growing faster than any other major fleet, now controls the seas off its coast. Once dominant, the United States and its allies sail warily in these waters. A former U.S. naval officer says China's advances have caught America napping.
By DAVID LAGUE in TAIPEI and BENJAMIN KANG LIM
Graphics by WEIYI CAI, HAN HUANG and SIMON SCARR
Illustrations by CHRISTIAN INTON
Filed April 30, 2019, 11 a.m. GMT
中文 (Read in Chinese) | 日本語版 (Read in Japanese)
A generation ago, from mid-1995 into early 1996, China lobbed missiles in the waters around Taiwan as the self-governing island prepared to hold its first fully democratic presidential election. Washington forcefully intervened to support its ally, sending two aircraft carrier battle groups to patrol nearby. The carriers, then as now the spearhead of American power, intimidated Beijing. The vote went ahead. The missiles stopped.
Today, with tension again running high, Washington still backs Taiwan. Chinese President Xi Jinping on January 2 renewed Beijing’s longstanding threat to use force if necessary to restore mainland control over the island. But the United States is now sending much more muted signals of support.
On Sunday, American ships sailed through the Taiwan Strait. This was the seventh passage of U.S. warships through the narrow, strategically sensitive waterway since July. Each time, though, just two U.S. vessels have ventured through; this week, it was a pair of destroyers. No powerful flotillas and certainly no aircraft carriers. It has been more than 11 years since an American carrier traversed the Taiwan Strait.
“The Trump administration faces a dilemma,” said Chang Ching, a retired Taiwan naval captain and researcher at the Taipei-based Society for Strategic Studies. “They want to send smart, calibrated signals to Beijing without causing an overreaction or misunderstanding.”
This caution is typical of the restraint the U.S. and allied navies, including Japan and Australia, now display in international waters near the Chinese coast, according to more than 10 current and former senior U.S. and Western military officials.
China now rules the waves in what it calls the San Hai, or “Three Seas”: the South China Sea, East China Sea and Yellow Sea. In these waters, the United States and its allies avoid provoking the Chinese navy.
Beijing
Chinese naval bases
U.S. military bases
JAPAN
Yellow
Sea
Qingdao
North Sea Fleet
headquarters
CHINA
East
China
Sea
Ningbo
East Sea Fleet
headquarters
Okinawa
TAIWAN
Zhanjiang
South Sea Fleet
headquarters
South
China
Sea
Pacific Ocean
Guam
PHILIPPINES
500 km
Sources: Federation of American Scientists (FAS); U.S. Navy; United States Forces Japan; United States Forces Korea; U.S Department of Defense; Marine Regions, Flanders Marine Institute; Natural Earth
In just over two decades, the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), the Chinese military, has mustered one of the mightiest navies in the world. This increased Chinese firepower at sea - complemented by a missile force that in some areas now outclasses America’s - has changed the game in the Pacific. The expanding naval force is central to President Xi Jinping’s bold bid to make China the preeminent military power in the region. In raw numbers, the PLA navy now has the world’s biggest fleet. It is also growing faster than any other major navy.
“We thought China would be a great pushover for way too long, and so we let them start the naval arms race while we dawdled,” said James Holmes, a professor at the U.S. Naval War College and a former U.S. Navy surface warfare officer.
China’s Ministry of National Defense, the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command and the Pentagon did not respond to questions from Reuters.
China’s expanding navy
Modern
submarines
50 vessels
Modern
frigates
40
30
Modern
destroyers
20
10
0
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2016
2018
Sources: Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS); International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS)
For the United States, the stakes are now much higher in any operation to support its regional allies, including Japan and Taiwan. America now faces daunting obstacles to any efforts to reinforce heavily outgunned Taiwan in a crisis. Beijing regards Taiwan as a renegade province and is currently building an amphibious force that could give it the capacity to launch an invasion of the island.
Senior Asian defense and security officials say the PLA’s naval advances have introduced a new uncertainty in such scenarios: If Beijing can sow serious doubt about whether Washington will intervene against China, it would undermine the value of U.S. security guarantees in Asia.
In November, a bipartisan commission set up by Congress to review the Trump administration’s national defense strategy reported that in a war with China over Taiwan, “Americans could face a decisive military defeat.”
As China gains confidence that it can dominate its near seas, it intends to challenge the dominance of the U.S. Navy in distant waters, too, in the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean, according to U.S and Chinese military officials.
A fleet of Chinese vessels escorts the aircraft carrier Liaoning, a refurbished former Soviet-era vessel, in the South China Sea in March last year. Planet Labs/Handout via REUTERS
Satellite imagery of Chinese dockyards, reports in China’s state-controlled media and assessments of U.S. and other foreign naval experts show the PLA navy is expanding as fast as shipyards can weld hulls together. This emerging blue water fleet was just a dream for the early commanders of the communist navy born in 1949, during the closing stages of the nation’s civil war. Then, the People’s Liberation Army assembled a motley collection of conscripted fishing boats and vessels defecting from the Nationalists.
Since 2014, China has launched more warships, submarines, support ships and major amphibious vessels than the entire number of ships now serving in the United Kingdom’s fleet, according to an analysis from the London-based International Institute for Strategic Studies published in May last year. Between 2015 and 2017, China launched almost 400,000 tonnes of naval vessels, about twice the output of U.S. shipyards in that period, the IISS said.
China overtakes America
400,000 tonnes
Chinese naval shipyards have accelerated their output in recent years
300,000
U.S.
200,000
100,000
CHINA
0
’00-’02
’03-’05
’06-’08
’09-’11
’12-’14
’15-’17
Source: International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS)
The PLA navy now has about 400 warships and submarines, according to U.S. and other Western naval analysts. By 2030, the Chinese navy could have more than 530 warships and submarines, according to a projection in a 2016 U.S. Naval War College study.
A shrunken and overworked U.S. Navy, which has ruled the oceans virtually unchallenged since the end of the Cold War, had 288 warships and submarines at the end of March, according to the Pentagon.
Globally, the U.S. Navy remains the dominant maritime force, the power that keeps the peace and maintains freedom of navigation on the high seas. Chinese military and political figures say that while their nation’s fleet has more ships, America has more powerful ones, and overall supremacy at sea.
“The Chinese navy is at least three decades behind the United States,” a retired Chinese naval officer told Reuters, requesting anonymity. “It is too early for the United States to fret.”
China, however, has established dominance in the waters closest to its coast.
Ending China’s humiliation
The regular, highly publicized launch of new warships is a powerful political weapon for Xi Jinping. For a domestic audience, modern aircraft carriers, destroyers and submarines are hard evidence that what Xi describes as the “Chinese dream,” his vision of a strong, rejuvenated nation, is becoming reality.
Almost immediately after taking power in late 2012, Xi began a series of high profile visits to naval bases and voyages at sea on sleek, new warships. In documentary footage and news reports, he is piped aboard to the salutes of immaculately turned out officers and crew. Underway, he peers into the distance from the bridge through bulky naval binoculars, climbs ladders between decks and shares meals with sailors.
Last spring, he watched a giant exercise in the South China Sea, where a flotilla of 48 warships assembled in formation. Half of these vessels had been commissioned since Xi took power, state-controlled media reported. The highlight was the launch of jet fighters from China’s first aircraft carrier: the 60,000-tonne Liaoning, a refurbished Soviet-era flat top that has served as a test bed for carrier operations. The Chinese navy has launched a second carrier as well, which is now in sea trials and expected to join the fleet this year, according to U.S. officials.
China’s first aircraft carrier, the Liaoning, takes part in a military display in the South China Sea in April last year, accompanied by warships and fighter jets. REUTERS/Stringer
A key message in the official coverage of Xi’s voyages: A vigilant navy under his command will guard against a repeat of the century of humiliation that began with the First Opium War in 1839, and during which European colonial powers and Japanese invaders took cruel advantage of a vulnerable China.
Every Chinese school child learns that China’s suffering arose partly because of the lack of a modern navy. Infamously, in the final years of the Qing Dynasty, the Empress Dowager diverted funds earmarked for naval modernization to building a new Summer Palace. This contributed to China’s heavy defeat in the 1894-95 war with Japan, in which a rising Japanese navy smashed the Chinese fleet.
While Beijing’s repeated references to these past humiliations have propaganda value, invasion is now regarded as a highly unlikely threat, according to military strategy documents published by the Chinese government. Instead, China needs to prepare for high intensity conflict in its near seas, these documents say.
It is not spelled out exactly how these conflicts would arise. But officers from the U.S. and other foreign militaries say they have no doubt Beijing is referring to clashes over Taiwan or disputed territories in China’s near seas. This strategy is driving a shift away from Beijing’s traditional emphasis on land forces. It marks a historic transformation for an ancient continental power that for millenia feared armies encroaching overland from the north and west.
Chinese sailors peer inside a military vessel featuring a picture of Chinese President Xi Jinping, during an open day celebrating the 19th anniversary of Hong Kong's handover to Chinese sovereignty from British rule (top); Chinese troops patrol in the Spratly Islands, known in China as the Nansha Islands. The sign reads, “Nansha is our national land, sacred and inviolable.” (bottom left); Soldiers of the PLA Marine Corps train at a military base in the western region of Xinjiang (bottom right). REUTERS/Stringer
Xi has elevated the status of the navy within what is the world’s biggest military. In an unprecedented move for what has been an army-dominated force, a senior naval officer, Vice Admiral Yuan Yubai, was appointed in 2017 to head China’s Southern Theater Command, one of the country’s five regional commands.
Under Xi, the Communist Party has also opened the funding tap. Between 2015 and 2021, total military outlays are projected to jump 55 percent from $167.9 billion to $260.8 billion, according to a report last year that the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission ordered from Jane’s By IHS Markit, a defense information company. Over the same period, the navy’s share of this budget is expected to increase 82 percent, from $31.4 billion to $57.1 billion, the report said.
The Chinese leader has set a clear direction for the navy to become a truly global force that would protect the country’s vast seaborne trade and expanding international interests. In its 2015 White Paper on defense, China said its navy would gradually shift its focus from defending its offshore waters to operations in the open seas.
For now, many of China’s warships are smaller vessels, including a big fleet of fast missile-attack craft. But Chinese shipyards are launching surface warships that are closing the gap in size, quality, and capability with the best of their foreign counterparts, according to interviews with veterans of the U.S., Taiwanese and Australian navies. China’s big fleet of conventional and nuclear submarines is also improving rapidly, they say.
Aircraft carriers
The U.S. fleet of nuclear powered aircraft carriers are the backbone of America's naval power. China's navy is in the early stages of building and deploying an effective carrier force, with one carrier deployed and a second soon to come.
CHINA
CHINA
U.S.
Liaoning
Gerald Ford class
Nimitz
class
U.S.
Amphibious assault ships
These vessels, in reality smaller aircraft carriers with fighters and helicopters, allow the United States to deploy marines with their heavy equipment and support them with air power.
CHINA
U.S.
Missile submarines
The role of these big, nuclear-powered submarines is to patrol undetected in the ocean depths. They can launch nuclear attacks with their ballistic missiles. The U.S. has converted four of these vessels so they can fire conventionally armed cruise missiles against land targets.
CHINA
Jin
U.S.
Attack submarines
These versatile vessels are designed to attack surface ships and other submarines with torpedoes or missiles. The entire U.S. fleet is nuclear powered while most of China's rapidly expanding force is made up of smaller, stealthy diesel-electric submarines.
CHINA
U.S.
Cruisers
China is poised to begin commissioning the first four of its Type 055 cruisers, powerful surface warships that will boost its fleet. The first of these vessels has completed most of its sea trials.
CHINA
U.S.
Destroyers
These are fast and maneuverable warships that perform multiple roles including escorting aircraft carriers, surface warfare, air and missile defense and anti-submarine warfare. China is expanding its fleet.
CHINA
U.S.
Frigates
China has a monopoly on this class of smaller, versatile warship that can be used for escorting other ships, air defense and anti-submarine warfare. Chinese shipyards are launching these ships at a rapid rate.
CHINA
U.S.
Corvettes
China has an expanding fleet of these smaller, missile-armed warships designed for operations closer to the mainland coast. The U.S. Navy's fleet of littoral combat ships is designed to perform a similar role.
CHINA
U.S.
Fast attack craft
These small, fast vessels are each armed with multiple potent anti-ship missiles. They are designed to operate in coastal waters where they could swarm adversaries and launch waves of missiles.
CHINA
U.S.
The number of vessels is based on figures from the IISS Military Balance, Pentagon budget papers, press reports and estimates from former senior U.S. Navy officers.
By 2020, the PLA navy will boast more big surface warships and submarines than the Russian navy, the former head of the U.S. Pacific Command, Admiral Harry Harris, told a congressional committee last year. Some American naval experts believe China could achieve rough parity with the U.S. Navy in numbers and quality of major surface warships by 2030.
Crucially, the Chinese navy already has an edge in hitting power, according to senior officers from the U.S. and other regional navies. The best Chinese destroyers, frigates, fast attack craft and submarines are armed with anti-ship missiles that in most cases far outrange and outperform those on U.S. warships, these officers say.
A different war
This firepower explains why Washington keeps its carriers at a distance. The last U.S. carrier to pass through the Taiwan Strait was the now-decommissioned USS Kitty Hawk, which made a transit with its battle group in late 2007 after being denied a port visit to Hong Kong.
The U.S. Navy and other foreign navies still sail near the Chinese mainland. But they avoid overt shows of force that would increase the risk of clashes with modern Chinese warships and submarines. Retired U.S. Navy carrier-fleet officers say that in recent years the Pentagon has also avoided sending carriers to the Yellow Sea between the Korean Peninsula and the Chinese mainland, amid repeated Chinese warnings.
An example of China's determination to control its near waters came this month, when a French warship passed through the Taiwan Strait. After the April 6 transit of the frigate Vendemiaire, China informed Paris that France was no longer welcome to attend celebrations last week to mark the 70th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese communist navy, U.S. officials told Reuters.
Veteran U.S. Navy officers predict any serious conflict with China off its coast would be bloody. The United States and its allies would risk heavy losses and possible defeat, they say.
This type of conflict would be vastly different from the wars the United States has been fighting in the Middle East and Afghanistan. There, America enjoyed unchallenged air and sea superiority and unimpeded logistics, said Gary Roughead, co-chairman of a 2018 review of the Trump administration's defense strategy. Today, heavy damage to or losses of American warships or major bases is a real but underappreciated possibility for the United States in a conflict with China, said Roughead, the former Chief of Naval Operations, the top job in the U.S. Navy. “We have not thought about the significant capital losses that will occur – and the American people not being prepared for that,” he said in an interview with Reuters. “Those are significant factors in the win-loss equation.”
Chinese warships launch missiles during a live-fire drill off the country’s northeast coast in August, 2017. REUTERS/Stringer
Chinese military veterans and people with ties to the ruling Communist Party leadership say China’s new naval muscle is defensive in nature. It is essential, they say, to counter a hostile United States that sees China as an enemy.
“Without air and sea domination, Chinese naval vessels will just be targets in the event of conflict,” said a retired PLA officer. “For Southeast Asian neighbors, China’s navy may be intimidating, but its prowess is limited to waters near the country’s shores and too early to be a force to be reckoned with in the open sea.”
The PLA navy is growing and improving, and in sheer numbers of vessels, exceeds its American rival. But China still falls well short of overall U.S. naval power. With 11 aircraft carriers, 88 powerful surface warships and 69 nuclear-powered submarines, America deploys the mightiest fleet and is likely to maintain a technological edge for some time, according to U.S. and Chinese military officials.
In response to the challenge from China and a resurgent Russian navy, the Pentagon is rebuilding its fleet and accelerating development of new weapons, including the urgent introduction of longer-range missiles. The United States aims to deploy a 355-strong fleet by 2034, according to the Trump administration’s 2020 budget proposal documents. And key U.S. allies Japan, South Korea and Australia are upgrading their navies with new, advanced warships and submarines.
“For Southeast Asian neighbors, China’s navy may be intimidating, but its prowess is limited to waters near the country’s shores.”
- A retired PLA officer
China also faces challenges in its drive to become a global naval power. Chinese and foreign naval experts warn that Beijing faces a colossal funding burden as it adds multiple warships to its fleet. Typically, navies wind up paying the initial price of building a warship three times over its service life, if maintenance and refitting costs are included, according to shipbuilders.
In some vital naval technologies, China is struggling to catch up. Chinese shipyards still rely on foreign suppliers for some engines, weapons and sensors, according to global arms trade registers. High-profile arrests of suspected Chinese spies accused of stealing military secrets in the United States suggest China’s navy has shortcomings in radars, underwater sensors and other electronic technologies.
The PLA navy is well behind the U.S. and other navies in anti-submarine warfare, a serious deficiency, according to Chinese and Western military experts. Most Western military analysts also believe the Chinese navy lacks the amphibious capability to invade Taiwan - the vessels and skills to reach the island by sea and then put boots on the ground.
However, when it comes to dominating its near seas, China doesn’t need to match the U.S. ship-for-ship. The U.S. Navy is a globe-spanning force with offshore bases and multiple missions, including supporting Middle East operations, bolstering European allies, countering Russia’s naval revival and safeguarding global shipping routes. To do this job, the U.S. Navy has to dominate virtually all the world’s oceans.
In contrast, the entire Chinese fleet is based on the mainland coast. This means it has the advantage of being the home team. Without major global military responsibilities, the PLA navy can concentrate virtually all its forces in its coastal waters, flooding the zone inside what Beijing refers to as “the first island chain”: the arc that runs through the nearby major islands of the Japanese archipelago, Taiwan, the Philippines and Borneo.
In a conflict in these near seas, the Chinese mainland would function as a vast, unsinkable aircraft carrier. China’s warships would be close to logistical support and the firepower of land-based missiles and strike aircraft. These forces would seek to overwhelm enemy warships with volleys of missiles and torpedoes from multiple directions, U.S. and Chinese military analysts say.
NORTH
KOREA
SOUTH
KOREA
JAPAN
Qingdao
North Sea Fleet
CHINA
Ningbo
East Sea Fleet
Second island
chain
First island
chain
TAIWAN
Zhanjiang
South Sea Fleet
Guam
PHILIPPINES
Most of this firepower was unavailable to Beijing when President Bill Clinton deployed the two carrier battle groups off Taiwan in early 1996. China’s obsolete navy, geared for coastal defense, was powerless to respond, and Beijing could only watch helplessly as the Taiwanese vote went ahead.
This humiliation was a turning point, Chinese and Western navy officers say. Stung, China ordered from Russia two powerful destroyers armed with supersonic anti-ship missiles that could take out American carriers and other warships. Two more arrived later from a subsequent order.
Building an armada
Then China’s naval shipyards started cranking. Satellite imagery of the key yards at Shanghai, Dalian, Guangzhou and Wuhan show them almost continuously crowded with warships and submarines at different stages of construction. Since June 2017, Chinese shipyards have launched four heavily armed Type 055 cruisers, which U.S. and Chinese military officials say are a match for any modern warship.
April 2018
Warships
under construction
Jiangnan Shipyard
N
Satellite image: Google, DigitalGlobe
Multiple warships can be seen under construction in one section of the Jiangnan Shipyard in Shanghai in April 2018, including Type 055 cruisers and Type 052D destroyers, advanced surface warships armed with long-range missiles for attacking naval and airborne targets. The first Type 055 cruiser, the 10,000-tonne Nanchang, has completed most of its sea trials and will soon join the fleet, the Chinese military said on April 25. It will deliver a major boost to China's naval firepower when fully operational.
April 2018
Type 052D
destroyers
Type 055
cruiser
Type 055
cruisers under construction
Satellite image: Google, DigitalGlobe
And the PLA is building a force of modern, amphibious heavy-lift vessels that in time could allow Beijing to mount a landing on Taiwan or disputed territories such as the Japanese-controlled Senkaku Islands, known as the Diaoyu Islands in China. The PLA is also training an expanded force of marines for amphibious landings. China’s marines are expected to be a 30,000-strong force by 2020, according to the Pentagon’s annual report on Chinese military power released in August.
On February 27, China's second aircraft carrier put to sea from Dalian for its fifth round of sea trials, according to reports in the official media.
With the still unnamed carrier close to joining the fleet, the PLA navy celebrated its anniversary on April 23 with a multinational naval display off the North Sea Fleet headquarters at Qingdao. Xi Jinping was on hand as the Nanchang made its first public appearance with the fleet.
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With Ships and Missiles, China Is Ready to Challenge U.S. Navy in Pacific
China’s first aircraft carrier, the Liaoning, at sea in April. First launched by the Soviet Union in 1988, it was sold for $20 million to a Chinese investor who said it would become a floating casino, though he was in reality acting on behalf of the People’s Liberation Army Navy.Credit...Agence France-Presse — Getty Images
By Steven Lee Myers
- Aug. 29, 2018
DALIAN, China — In April, on the 69th anniversary of the founding of China’s Navy, the country’s first domestically built aircraft carrier stirred from its berth in the port city of Dalian on the Bohai Sea, tethered to tugboats for a test of its seaworthiness.
“China’s first homegrown aircraft carrier just moved a bit, and the United States, Japan and India squirmed,” a military news website crowed, referring to the three nations China views as its main rivals.
https://nationalinterest.org/blog/t...have-351-navy-ships-bigger-america-navy-18940
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January 4, 2017 Topic: Security Blog Brand: The Buzz Tags: ChinaChinese NavyNavyMilitaryTechnology
Report: China Could Have 351 Navy Ships (Bigger America' Navy) By 2020
What can Washington do about it?
by Kris Osborn
Ongoing U.S.-China tensions in the South China Sea regarding Chinese artificial island-building are leading many at the Pentagon to sharpen their focus upon the rapid pace of Chinese Naval modernization and expansion.
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While Chinese naval technology may still be substantially behind current U.S. platforms, the equation could change dramatically over the next several decades because the Chinese are reportedly working on a handful of high-tech next-generation ships, weapons and naval systems.
China has plans to grow its navy to 351 ships by 2020 as the Chinese continue to develop their military’s ability to strike global targets, according to a recent Congressional report.
The 2014 U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission recommended to Congress that the U.S. Navy respond by building more ships and increase its presence in the Pacific region – a strategy the U.S. military has already started.
Opponents of this strategy point out that the U.S. has 11 aircraft carriers, the Chinese have one and China's one carrier still lacks an aircraft wing capable of operating off of a carrier deck. However, several recent reports have cited satellite photos showing that China is now building its own indigenous aircraft carriers. Ultimately, the Chinese plan to acquire four aircraft carriers, the reports say.
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The commission cites platforms and weapons systems the Chinese are developing, which change the strategic calculus regarding how U.S. carriers and surface ships might need to operate in the region.
These include the LUYANG III, a new class of Chinese destroyer slated to enter the fleet this year. These ships are being engineered with vertically-launched, long-range anti-ship cruise missiles, the commission said. The new destroyer will carry an extended-range variant of the HHQ-9 surface-to-air missile, among other weapons, the report says.
Furthermore, the Chinese may already be beginning construction on several of their own indigenous aircraft carriers. China currently has one carrier, the Ukranian-built Liaoning. It is not expected to have an operational carrier air wing until sometime this year, according to the report.
The Chinese are currently testing and developing a new, carrier-based fighter aircraft called the J-15.
Regarding amphibious assault ships, the Chinese are planning to add several more YUZHAO LPDs, amphibs which can carry 800 troops, four helicopters and up to 20 armored vehicles, the report said.
The Chinese are also working on development of a new Type 055 cruiser equipped with land-attack missiles, lasers and rail-gun weapons, according to the review.
China’s surface fleet is also bolstered by production of at least 60 smaller, fast-moving HOBEI-glass guided missile patrol boats and ongoing deliveries of JIANGDAO light frigates armed with naval guns, torpedoes and anti-ship cruise missiles.
The commission also says Chinese modernization plans call for a sharp increase in attack submarines and nuclear-armed submarines or SSBNs. Chinese SSBNs are now able to patrol with nuclear-armed JL-2 missiles able to strike targets more than 4,500 nautical miles.
The Chinese are currently working on a new, modernized SSBN platform as well as a long-range missile, the JL-3, the commission says.
While the commission says the exact amount of Chinese military spending is difficult to identify, China’s projected defense spending for 2014 is cited at $131 billion, approximately 12.2 percent greater than 2013. This figure is about one sixth of what the U.S. spends annually.
The Chinese defense budget has increased by double digits since 1989, the commission states, resulting in annual defense spending doubling since 2008, according to the report.
Some members of Congress, including the House Armed Services Committee's Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee Chairman Rep. Randy Forbes, R-Va., are advocating for both a larger U.S. Navy and a stronger U.S. posture toward China's behavior in the region.
Kris Osborn became the Managing Editor of Scout Warrior in August of 2015. His role with Scout.com includes managing content on the Scout Warrior site and generating independently sourced original material. Scout Warrior is aimed at providing engaging, substantial military-specific content covering a range of key areas such as weapons, emerging or next-generation technologies and issues of relevance to the military. Just prior to coming to Scout Warrior, Osborn served as an Associate Editor at the Military.com. Osborn previously served at the Pentagon as a Highly Qualified Expert with the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army - Acquisition, Logistics & Technology. Osborn has also worked as an anchor and on-air military specialist at CNN and CNN Headline News. This story originally appeared in Scout Warrior.
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The China Challenge
The China challenge
Ruling the Waves
China’s vast fleet is tipping the balance in the Pacific
The Chinese navy, which is growing faster than any other major fleet, now controls the seas off its coast. Once dominant, the United States and its allies sail warily in these waters. A former U.S. naval officer says China's advances have caught America napping.
By DAVID LAGUE in TAIPEI and BENJAMIN KANG LIM
Graphics by WEIYI CAI, HAN HUANG and SIMON SCARR
Illustrations by CHRISTIAN INTON
Filed April 30, 2019, 11 a.m. GMT
中文 (Read in Chinese) | 日本語版 (Read in Japanese)
A generation ago, from mid-1995 into early 1996, China lobbed missiles in the waters around Taiwan as the self-governing island prepared to hold its first fully democratic presidential election. Washington forcefully intervened to support its ally, sending two aircraft carrier battle groups to patrol nearby. The carriers, then as now the spearhead of American power, intimidated Beijing. The vote went ahead. The missiles stopped.
Today, with tension again running high, Washington still backs Taiwan. Chinese President Xi Jinping on January 2 renewed Beijing’s longstanding threat to use force if necessary to restore mainland control over the island. But the United States is now sending much more muted signals of support.
On Sunday, American ships sailed through the Taiwan Strait. This was the seventh passage of U.S. warships through the narrow, strategically sensitive waterway since July. Each time, though, just two U.S. vessels have ventured through; this week, it was a pair of destroyers. No powerful flotillas and certainly no aircraft carriers. It has been more than 11 years since an American carrier traversed the Taiwan Strait.
“The Trump administration faces a dilemma,” said Chang Ching, a retired Taiwan naval captain and researcher at the Taipei-based Society for Strategic Studies. “They want to send smart, calibrated signals to Beijing without causing an overreaction or misunderstanding.”
This caution is typical of the restraint the U.S. and allied navies, including Japan and Australia, now display in international waters near the Chinese coast, according to more than 10 current and former senior U.S. and Western military officials.
China now rules the waves in what it calls the San Hai, or “Three Seas”: the South China Sea, East China Sea and Yellow Sea. In these waters, the United States and its allies avoid provoking the Chinese navy.
Beijing
Chinese naval bases
U.S. military bases
JAPAN
Yellow
Sea
Qingdao
North Sea Fleet
headquarters
CHINA
East
China
Sea
Ningbo
East Sea Fleet
headquarters
Okinawa
TAIWAN
Zhanjiang
South Sea Fleet
headquarters
South
China
Sea
Pacific Ocean
Guam
PHILIPPINES
500 km
Sources: Federation of American Scientists (FAS); U.S. Navy; United States Forces Japan; United States Forces Korea; U.S Department of Defense; Marine Regions, Flanders Marine Institute; Natural Earth
In just over two decades, the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), the Chinese military, has mustered one of the mightiest navies in the world. This increased Chinese firepower at sea - complemented by a missile force that in some areas now outclasses America’s - has changed the game in the Pacific. The expanding naval force is central to President Xi Jinping’s bold bid to make China the preeminent military power in the region. In raw numbers, the PLA navy now has the world’s biggest fleet. It is also growing faster than any other major navy.
“We thought China would be a great pushover for way too long, and so we let them start the naval arms race while we dawdled,” said James Holmes, a professor at the U.S. Naval War College and a former U.S. Navy surface warfare officer.
China’s Ministry of National Defense, the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command and the Pentagon did not respond to questions from Reuters.
China’s expanding navy
Modern
submarines
50 vessels
Modern
frigates
40
30
Modern
destroyers
20
10
0
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2016
2018
Sources: Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS); International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS)
For the United States, the stakes are now much higher in any operation to support its regional allies, including Japan and Taiwan. America now faces daunting obstacles to any efforts to reinforce heavily outgunned Taiwan in a crisis. Beijing regards Taiwan as a renegade province and is currently building an amphibious force that could give it the capacity to launch an invasion of the island.
Senior Asian defense and security officials say the PLA’s naval advances have introduced a new uncertainty in such scenarios: If Beijing can sow serious doubt about whether Washington will intervene against China, it would undermine the value of U.S. security guarantees in Asia.
In November, a bipartisan commission set up by Congress to review the Trump administration’s national defense strategy reported that in a war with China over Taiwan, “Americans could face a decisive military defeat.”
As China gains confidence that it can dominate its near seas, it intends to challenge the dominance of the U.S. Navy in distant waters, too, in the Western Pacific and Indian Ocean, according to U.S and Chinese military officials.
A fleet of Chinese vessels escorts the aircraft carrier Liaoning, a refurbished former Soviet-era vessel, in the South China Sea in March last year. Planet Labs/Handout via REUTERS
Satellite imagery of Chinese dockyards, reports in China’s state-controlled media and assessments of U.S. and other foreign naval experts show the PLA navy is expanding as fast as shipyards can weld hulls together. This emerging blue water fleet was just a dream for the early commanders of the communist navy born in 1949, during the closing stages of the nation’s civil war. Then, the People’s Liberation Army assembled a motley collection of conscripted fishing boats and vessels defecting from the Nationalists.
Since 2014, China has launched more warships, submarines, support ships and major amphibious vessels than the entire number of ships now serving in the United Kingdom’s fleet, according to an analysis from the London-based International Institute for Strategic Studies published in May last year. Between 2015 and 2017, China launched almost 400,000 tonnes of naval vessels, about twice the output of U.S. shipyards in that period, the IISS said.
China overtakes America
400,000 tonnes
Chinese naval shipyards have accelerated their output in recent years
300,000
U.S.
200,000
100,000
CHINA
0
’00-’02
’03-’05
’06-’08
’09-’11
’12-’14
’15-’17
Source: International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS)
The PLA navy now has about 400 warships and submarines, according to U.S. and other Western naval analysts. By 2030, the Chinese navy could have more than 530 warships and submarines, according to a projection in a 2016 U.S. Naval War College study.
A shrunken and overworked U.S. Navy, which has ruled the oceans virtually unchallenged since the end of the Cold War, had 288 warships and submarines at the end of March, according to the Pentagon.
Globally, the U.S. Navy remains the dominant maritime force, the power that keeps the peace and maintains freedom of navigation on the high seas. Chinese military and political figures say that while their nation’s fleet has more ships, America has more powerful ones, and overall supremacy at sea.
“The Chinese navy is at least three decades behind the United States,” a retired Chinese naval officer told Reuters, requesting anonymity. “It is too early for the United States to fret.”
China, however, has established dominance in the waters closest to its coast.
Ending China’s humiliation
The regular, highly publicized launch of new warships is a powerful political weapon for Xi Jinping. For a domestic audience, modern aircraft carriers, destroyers and submarines are hard evidence that what Xi describes as the “Chinese dream,” his vision of a strong, rejuvenated nation, is becoming reality.
Almost immediately after taking power in late 2012, Xi began a series of high profile visits to naval bases and voyages at sea on sleek, new warships. In documentary footage and news reports, he is piped aboard to the salutes of immaculately turned out officers and crew. Underway, he peers into the distance from the bridge through bulky naval binoculars, climbs ladders between decks and shares meals with sailors.
Last spring, he watched a giant exercise in the South China Sea, where a flotilla of 48 warships assembled in formation. Half of these vessels had been commissioned since Xi took power, state-controlled media reported. The highlight was the launch of jet fighters from China’s first aircraft carrier: the 60,000-tonne Liaoning, a refurbished Soviet-era flat top that has served as a test bed for carrier operations. The Chinese navy has launched a second carrier as well, which is now in sea trials and expected to join the fleet this year, according to U.S. officials.
China’s first aircraft carrier, the Liaoning, takes part in a military display in the South China Sea in April last year, accompanied by warships and fighter jets. REUTERS/Stringer
A key message in the official coverage of Xi’s voyages: A vigilant navy under his command will guard against a repeat of the century of humiliation that began with the First Opium War in 1839, and during which European colonial powers and Japanese invaders took cruel advantage of a vulnerable China.
Every Chinese school child learns that China’s suffering arose partly because of the lack of a modern navy. Infamously, in the final years of the Qing Dynasty, the Empress Dowager diverted funds earmarked for naval modernization to building a new Summer Palace. This contributed to China’s heavy defeat in the 1894-95 war with Japan, in which a rising Japanese navy smashed the Chinese fleet.
While Beijing’s repeated references to these past humiliations have propaganda value, invasion is now regarded as a highly unlikely threat, according to military strategy documents published by the Chinese government. Instead, China needs to prepare for high intensity conflict in its near seas, these documents say.
It is not spelled out exactly how these conflicts would arise. But officers from the U.S. and other foreign militaries say they have no doubt Beijing is referring to clashes over Taiwan or disputed territories in China’s near seas. This strategy is driving a shift away from Beijing’s traditional emphasis on land forces. It marks a historic transformation for an ancient continental power that for millenia feared armies encroaching overland from the north and west.
Chinese sailors peer inside a military vessel featuring a picture of Chinese President Xi Jinping, during an open day celebrating the 19th anniversary of Hong Kong's handover to Chinese sovereignty from British rule (top); Chinese troops patrol in the Spratly Islands, known in China as the Nansha Islands. The sign reads, “Nansha is our national land, sacred and inviolable.” (bottom left); Soldiers of the PLA Marine Corps train at a military base in the western region of Xinjiang (bottom right). REUTERS/Stringer
Xi has elevated the status of the navy within what is the world’s biggest military. In an unprecedented move for what has been an army-dominated force, a senior naval officer, Vice Admiral Yuan Yubai, was appointed in 2017 to head China’s Southern Theater Command, one of the country’s five regional commands.
Under Xi, the Communist Party has also opened the funding tap. Between 2015 and 2021, total military outlays are projected to jump 55 percent from $167.9 billion to $260.8 billion, according to a report last year that the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission ordered from Jane’s By IHS Markit, a defense information company. Over the same period, the navy’s share of this budget is expected to increase 82 percent, from $31.4 billion to $57.1 billion, the report said.
The Chinese leader has set a clear direction for the navy to become a truly global force that would protect the country’s vast seaborne trade and expanding international interests. In its 2015 White Paper on defense, China said its navy would gradually shift its focus from defending its offshore waters to operations in the open seas.
For now, many of China’s warships are smaller vessels, including a big fleet of fast missile-attack craft. But Chinese shipyards are launching surface warships that are closing the gap in size, quality, and capability with the best of their foreign counterparts, according to interviews with veterans of the U.S., Taiwanese and Australian navies. China’s big fleet of conventional and nuclear submarines is also improving rapidly, they say.
Aircraft carriers
The U.S. fleet of nuclear powered aircraft carriers are the backbone of America's naval power. China's navy is in the early stages of building and deploying an effective carrier force, with one carrier deployed and a second soon to come.
CHINA
CHINA
U.S.
Liaoning
Gerald Ford class
Nimitz
class
U.S.
Amphibious assault ships
These vessels, in reality smaller aircraft carriers with fighters and helicopters, allow the United States to deploy marines with their heavy equipment and support them with air power.
CHINA
U.S.
Missile submarines
The role of these big, nuclear-powered submarines is to patrol undetected in the ocean depths. They can launch nuclear attacks with their ballistic missiles. The U.S. has converted four of these vessels so they can fire conventionally armed cruise missiles against land targets.
CHINA
Jin
U.S.
Attack submarines
These versatile vessels are designed to attack surface ships and other submarines with torpedoes or missiles. The entire U.S. fleet is nuclear powered while most of China's rapidly expanding force is made up of smaller, stealthy diesel-electric submarines.
CHINA
U.S.
Cruisers
China is poised to begin commissioning the first four of its Type 055 cruisers, powerful surface warships that will boost its fleet. The first of these vessels has completed most of its sea trials.
CHINA
U.S.
Destroyers
These are fast and maneuverable warships that perform multiple roles including escorting aircraft carriers, surface warfare, air and missile defense and anti-submarine warfare. China is expanding its fleet.
CHINA
U.S.
Frigates
China has a monopoly on this class of smaller, versatile warship that can be used for escorting other ships, air defense and anti-submarine warfare. Chinese shipyards are launching these ships at a rapid rate.
CHINA
U.S.
Corvettes
China has an expanding fleet of these smaller, missile-armed warships designed for operations closer to the mainland coast. The U.S. Navy's fleet of littoral combat ships is designed to perform a similar role.
CHINA
U.S.
Fast attack craft
These small, fast vessels are each armed with multiple potent anti-ship missiles. They are designed to operate in coastal waters where they could swarm adversaries and launch waves of missiles.
CHINA
U.S.
The number of vessels is based on figures from the IISS Military Balance, Pentagon budget papers, press reports and estimates from former senior U.S. Navy officers.
By 2020, the PLA navy will boast more big surface warships and submarines than the Russian navy, the former head of the U.S. Pacific Command, Admiral Harry Harris, told a congressional committee last year. Some American naval experts believe China could achieve rough parity with the U.S. Navy in numbers and quality of major surface warships by 2030.
Crucially, the Chinese navy already has an edge in hitting power, according to senior officers from the U.S. and other regional navies. The best Chinese destroyers, frigates, fast attack craft and submarines are armed with anti-ship missiles that in most cases far outrange and outperform those on U.S. warships, these officers say.
A different war
This firepower explains why Washington keeps its carriers at a distance. The last U.S. carrier to pass through the Taiwan Strait was the now-decommissioned USS Kitty Hawk, which made a transit with its battle group in late 2007 after being denied a port visit to Hong Kong.
The U.S. Navy and other foreign navies still sail near the Chinese mainland. But they avoid overt shows of force that would increase the risk of clashes with modern Chinese warships and submarines. Retired U.S. Navy carrier-fleet officers say that in recent years the Pentagon has also avoided sending carriers to the Yellow Sea between the Korean Peninsula and the Chinese mainland, amid repeated Chinese warnings.
An example of China's determination to control its near waters came this month, when a French warship passed through the Taiwan Strait. After the April 6 transit of the frigate Vendemiaire, China informed Paris that France was no longer welcome to attend celebrations last week to mark the 70th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese communist navy, U.S. officials told Reuters.
Veteran U.S. Navy officers predict any serious conflict with China off its coast would be bloody. The United States and its allies would risk heavy losses and possible defeat, they say.
This type of conflict would be vastly different from the wars the United States has been fighting in the Middle East and Afghanistan. There, America enjoyed unchallenged air and sea superiority and unimpeded logistics, said Gary Roughead, co-chairman of a 2018 review of the Trump administration's defense strategy. Today, heavy damage to or losses of American warships or major bases is a real but underappreciated possibility for the United States in a conflict with China, said Roughead, the former Chief of Naval Operations, the top job in the U.S. Navy. “We have not thought about the significant capital losses that will occur – and the American people not being prepared for that,” he said in an interview with Reuters. “Those are significant factors in the win-loss equation.”
Chinese warships launch missiles during a live-fire drill off the country’s northeast coast in August, 2017. REUTERS/Stringer
Chinese military veterans and people with ties to the ruling Communist Party leadership say China’s new naval muscle is defensive in nature. It is essential, they say, to counter a hostile United States that sees China as an enemy.
“Without air and sea domination, Chinese naval vessels will just be targets in the event of conflict,” said a retired PLA officer. “For Southeast Asian neighbors, China’s navy may be intimidating, but its prowess is limited to waters near the country’s shores and too early to be a force to be reckoned with in the open sea.”
The PLA navy is growing and improving, and in sheer numbers of vessels, exceeds its American rival. But China still falls well short of overall U.S. naval power. With 11 aircraft carriers, 88 powerful surface warships and 69 nuclear-powered submarines, America deploys the mightiest fleet and is likely to maintain a technological edge for some time, according to U.S. and Chinese military officials.
In response to the challenge from China and a resurgent Russian navy, the Pentagon is rebuilding its fleet and accelerating development of new weapons, including the urgent introduction of longer-range missiles. The United States aims to deploy a 355-strong fleet by 2034, according to the Trump administration’s 2020 budget proposal documents. And key U.S. allies Japan, South Korea and Australia are upgrading their navies with new, advanced warships and submarines.
“For Southeast Asian neighbors, China’s navy may be intimidating, but its prowess is limited to waters near the country’s shores.”
- A retired PLA officer
China also faces challenges in its drive to become a global naval power. Chinese and foreign naval experts warn that Beijing faces a colossal funding burden as it adds multiple warships to its fleet. Typically, navies wind up paying the initial price of building a warship three times over its service life, if maintenance and refitting costs are included, according to shipbuilders.
In some vital naval technologies, China is struggling to catch up. Chinese shipyards still rely on foreign suppliers for some engines, weapons and sensors, according to global arms trade registers. High-profile arrests of suspected Chinese spies accused of stealing military secrets in the United States suggest China’s navy has shortcomings in radars, underwater sensors and other electronic technologies.
The PLA navy is well behind the U.S. and other navies in anti-submarine warfare, a serious deficiency, according to Chinese and Western military experts. Most Western military analysts also believe the Chinese navy lacks the amphibious capability to invade Taiwan - the vessels and skills to reach the island by sea and then put boots on the ground.
However, when it comes to dominating its near seas, China doesn’t need to match the U.S. ship-for-ship. The U.S. Navy is a globe-spanning force with offshore bases and multiple missions, including supporting Middle East operations, bolstering European allies, countering Russia’s naval revival and safeguarding global shipping routes. To do this job, the U.S. Navy has to dominate virtually all the world’s oceans.
In contrast, the entire Chinese fleet is based on the mainland coast. This means it has the advantage of being the home team. Without major global military responsibilities, the PLA navy can concentrate virtually all its forces in its coastal waters, flooding the zone inside what Beijing refers to as “the first island chain”: the arc that runs through the nearby major islands of the Japanese archipelago, Taiwan, the Philippines and Borneo.
In a conflict in these near seas, the Chinese mainland would function as a vast, unsinkable aircraft carrier. China’s warships would be close to logistical support and the firepower of land-based missiles and strike aircraft. These forces would seek to overwhelm enemy warships with volleys of missiles and torpedoes from multiple directions, U.S. and Chinese military analysts say.
NORTH
KOREA
SOUTH
KOREA
JAPAN
Qingdao
North Sea Fleet
CHINA
Ningbo
East Sea Fleet
Second island
chain
First island
chain
TAIWAN
Zhanjiang
South Sea Fleet
Guam
PHILIPPINES
Most of this firepower was unavailable to Beijing when President Bill Clinton deployed the two carrier battle groups off Taiwan in early 1996. China’s obsolete navy, geared for coastal defense, was powerless to respond, and Beijing could only watch helplessly as the Taiwanese vote went ahead.
This humiliation was a turning point, Chinese and Western navy officers say. Stung, China ordered from Russia two powerful destroyers armed with supersonic anti-ship missiles that could take out American carriers and other warships. Two more arrived later from a subsequent order.
Building an armada
Then China’s naval shipyards started cranking. Satellite imagery of the key yards at Shanghai, Dalian, Guangzhou and Wuhan show them almost continuously crowded with warships and submarines at different stages of construction. Since June 2017, Chinese shipyards have launched four heavily armed Type 055 cruisers, which U.S. and Chinese military officials say are a match for any modern warship.
April 2018
Warships
under construction
Jiangnan Shipyard
N
Satellite image: Google, DigitalGlobe
Multiple warships can be seen under construction in one section of the Jiangnan Shipyard in Shanghai in April 2018, including Type 055 cruisers and Type 052D destroyers, advanced surface warships armed with long-range missiles for attacking naval and airborne targets. The first Type 055 cruiser, the 10,000-tonne Nanchang, has completed most of its sea trials and will soon join the fleet, the Chinese military said on April 25. It will deliver a major boost to China's naval firepower when fully operational.
April 2018
Type 052D
destroyers
Type 055
cruiser
Type 055
cruisers under construction
Satellite image: Google, DigitalGlobe
And the PLA is building a force of modern, amphibious heavy-lift vessels that in time could allow Beijing to mount a landing on Taiwan or disputed territories such as the Japanese-controlled Senkaku Islands, known as the Diaoyu Islands in China. The PLA is also training an expanded force of marines for amphibious landings. China’s marines are expected to be a 30,000-strong force by 2020, according to the Pentagon’s annual report on Chinese military power released in August.
On February 27, China's second aircraft carrier put to sea from Dalian for its fifth round of sea trials, according to reports in the official media.
With the still unnamed carrier close to joining the fleet, the PLA navy celebrated its anniversary on April 23 with a multinational naval display off the North Sea Fleet headquarters at Qingdao. Xi Jinping was on hand as the Nanchang made its first public appearance with the fleet.
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