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Description

The future strategic capabilities of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) will substantially differ from the past; both numerical increases and significant qualitative improvements are likely.

Key information gaps, aggravated by a lack of transparency, hamper our understanding of China’s expanding nuclear and missile capabilities, doctrinal innovations, and evolving strategic intentions.

While U.S. and PRC interests intersect in a number of areas, there are also important differences. The status and future disposition of Taiwan is perhaps the single greatest flashpoint for conflict, a case in which U.S. deterrence of a range of PRC military steps may fail and escalation ensue.

A rising power, China is striving to become a heavyweight in Asia. The longterm complementarity of U.S. and PRC interests is predicated in large part on Beijing’s strategic choices.

Document Type

Policy Brief

Publication Date

10-2000

Publication

Strategic Forum

Publisher

National Defense University Press

City

Washington, DC

China Rising: New Challenges to the U.S. Security Posture

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