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ChinaPower

China’s Quest for Military Supremacy: A Conversation with Dr. Joel Wuthnow and Dr. Phil Saunders

Mar 13, 2025
Join Dr. Joel Wuthnow, a senior research fellow specializing in Chinese military affairs, and Dr. Phil Saunders, director of the INSS Center for the Study of Chinese Military Affairs, as they dissect China’s military ambitions. They discuss the PLA’s evolution under Xi Jinping, its assertive maneuvers in the Indo-Pacific, and challenges like party control and corruption. The experts also examine the implications of China’s nuclear modernization and readiness for a potential Taiwan invasion. Their insights shed light on the future of U.S.-China relations.
46:11

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The People's Liberation Army has entered a 'new era' under Xi Jinping, marked by increased confidence and military modernization efforts.
  • Recent PLA live-fire exercises around Australia and New Zealand illustrate China's assertive military posture and its aim to influence Indo-Pacific security dynamics.

Deep dives

Transformation of the PLA under Xi Jinping

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) has undergone significant transformation in recent years, largely driven by Xi Jinping's leadership since he assumed power in 2012. This period, often referred to as a 'new era', is characterized by an increased confidence and assertiveness in military operations, as seen in the PLA's responses to events like Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan in 2022. The PLA has not only enhanced its capabilities through modernization efforts, such as developing advanced aircraft carriers and joint strike operations, but also restructured its organization to improve operational efficiency and jointness among its various branches. This evolution aligns with Xi's ambition to establish the PLA as a formidable force, both for national defense and to project Chinese influence in the Indo-Pacific region.

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