China’s military budget provides insight into its expanding military capabilities. In terms of gauging relative military strength, defense budgets can be compared between countries and over a set period of time to assess overall trends.
Military
Fueled by decades of rapid economic growth and a desire to further its security interests, China has embarked on a large-scale modernization of its military. President Xi Jinping has instituted extensive military reforms aimed at streamlining command structures and improving Chinese military strength. China now boasts a robust navy with a burgeoning aircraft carrier program and one of the largest air forces in the world. To learn more about China’s military power, explore our featured content below.
Is China at the Forefront of Drone Technology?
Amid its ongoing economic development and military modernization, China has emerged as one of a handful of global leaders in the development of unmanned systems. As China continues to advance its UAV technology, it is poised to play a dominant role in shaping industry trends.
How Dominant is China in the Global Arms Trade?
Decades of economic growth coupled with its ongoing military modernization have enabled China to emerge as a major player in the global arms trade. Between 2008 and 2017, China exported some $14.4 billion worth of conventional weapons across the globe, making it the 5th largest arms supplier in the world.
China’s Power: Up for Debate 2017
ChinaPower hosted its second annual conference on November 14, 2017. The conference featured Senator John Cornyn as the keynote speaker.
Does China’s J-20 Rival Other Stealth Fighters?
The Chengdu J-20 marks the first entry of a multirole stealth fighter into China’s armed forces. The J-20 has the potential to provide China with a variety of previously unavailable air combat options and enhance its capability to project power.
How is China Bolstering its Military Diplomatic Relations?
In recent years, Beijing has ramped up its military diplomacy to advance its foreign policy objectives. This push has increased China’s participation in military exercises and resulted in Chinese naval vessels calling at ports around the world.
How Does China’s First Aircraft Carrier Stack Up?
The entry of China’s first aircraft carrier, the Liaoning, attracts considerable attention from both the press and military observers around the world. It represents China’s global power for some, and a significant step towards a more assertive Chinese navy for others.
What Do We Know (so far) about China’s Second Aircraft Carrier?
Seven years after the Liaoning entered service into the Chinese navy, China commissioned its second aircraft carrier, the Shandong, on December 17, 2019. This ship features notable enhancements over the Liaoning and represents an important step in China’s developing aircraft carrier program.