Professor Xiaobing Li discusses the evolution of China's Navy, from its humble beginnings to becoming the second-largest navy globally. The podcast explores tensions with the US in the South China Sea, China's naval modernization goals, and strategic concerns over potential conflicts in the region. The conversation delves into historical transformations, naval reforms, and the role of key figures like Xi Jinping in shaping China's naval strategy and challenging the US-dominated security system.

Xiaobing Li, professor of history and Don Betz Endowed Chair in International Studies at the University of Central Oklahoma, joins the podcast to discuss his new book 'China’s New Navy'. They explore the origins and development of the PLA Navy, China's naval plan, Beijing's strategies towards Taiwan, and the PLA's level of confidence in combat.