Pekingology Is China’s Military Ready for War?
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Aug 21, 2025 M. Taylor Fravel, a political science professor and director of MIT's Security Studies Program, discusses his recent findings on China's military readiness. He dives into the internal purges within the People's Liberation Army, revealing their impact on military leadership and decision-making. Fravel connects these changes to President Xi Jinping's consolidation of power, as well as exploring historical military strategies in conflicts like Korea and Vietnam. He emphasizes how these dynamics affect U.S.-China military relations and Beijing's approach to crisis management.
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Formative Years In Taiwan
- Taylor Fravel grew up in Taipei after his father was posted there when he was 16.
- That experience led him to study Chinese history and focus on Chinese foreign policy.
Multiple Drivers Behind PLA Purges
- Purges in the PLA reflect multiple causes: graft, bribery, internal politics, competence, and organizational reform struggles.
- Limited public information makes precise attribution difficult, so analysts must weigh multiple plausible explanations.
Xi's Authority Over The PLA
- Xi removed many officers he personally promoted, signaling his control over the military.
- Removing his own appointees also warns others that proximity to Xi does not protect against punishment.