Joel Wuthnow discusses Xi Jinping's purges within the PLA, corruption within the military, and the potential risk of an invasion of Taiwan. The Rocket Force's development of hypersonic missiles and Xi's distrust of his inner circle are explored. Wuthnow highlights the endemic corruption in the PLA and the challenges of reform. The podcast also delves into the allocation of the military budget, the possibility of an amphibious invasion of Taiwan, and the recommendations for further reading on the PLA.

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.

Dr. Joel Wuthnow discusses China's PLA restructuring, emphasizing the formation of the Information Support Force and its role in modernizing information warfare. He clarifies that the changes do not signal an offensive shift but aim to enhance integration capabilities. Dr. Wuthnow also shares insights on future priorities for the PLA.