China's Battle-Readiness for a Possible Invasion of Taiwan

China's military, the People's Liberation Army (PLA), has been expanding its operations near Taiwan, raising concerns of a potential invasion. However, China's lack of combat experience since 1979 and a history of limited success in engagements like the conflict with Vietnam and the pro-democracy protests in Beijing pose challenges. The PLA also faces obstacles like a convoluted command structure, inadequate logistics, and a shortage of technologically skilled recruits. While China has a large army, navy, and air force, its military reform efforts have been slow, and concerns of overestimating its capabilities and provoking unnecessary confrontation exist.