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Description

This Strategic Forum paper examines the political, social, and strategic risks associated with China’s accelerated military modernization. While Beijing seeks to transform the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) into a technologically advanced, professional force capable of supporting China’s rise as a major power, the author argues that modernization may carry significant internal and regional consequences. The paper analyzes how professionalization, expanded recruitment from urban and educated populations, and enhanced military capabilities could alter the PLA’s traditional identity as the armed wing of the Chinese Communist Party. It explores potential tensions between party control and military professionalism, evolving civil-military relations, and the broader implications for regional stability and U.S. security interests. Ultimately, modernization is framed as a high-stakes gamble: it could yield a more disciplined and stabilizing force—or foster nationalism, political friction, and increased strategic risk in the Asia-Pacific.

Document Type

Policy Brief

Region(s)

China, Asia-Pacific region, United States

Topic(s)

Chinese Military, Strategic Competition, National Security

Publication Date

12-2003

Publication

Strategic Forum

Publisher

National Defense University Press

City

Washington, DC

Keywords

China, People’s Liberation Army, PLA modernization, civil-military relations, Chinese Communist Party, military reform, Asia-Pacific security, nationalism, regional stability, U.S.–China relations

Modernizing China’s Military: A High-Stakes Gamble?

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