Pentagon Report: China Accelerates Military Modernization
Executive Summary
The 2025 Department of Defense report reveals a significant acceleration in the PRC's military trajectory. Beijing remains committed to achieving a "world-class" military by 2049, with critical interim goals in 2027 and 2035.
Key findings include the rapid expansion of nuclear warhead inventories—projected to reach 1,500 by 2035—and the persistent growth of the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN), which continues to be the world's largest naval force.
media.defense.gov (Dec 2025)
The Strategic Roadmap
The PLA milestones focus on integrating AI and joint operations, with 2027 serving as a benchmark for Taiwan-related contingencies.
2027
Intelligentization
2035
Modernization
2049
World Class
☢ Nuclear Expansion
A rapid shift toward a robust arsenal, supported by 300+ new silos.
⚓ Naval Dominance
The world's largest navy expanding into "Far Seas Protection."
The First Island Chain
Geographic proximity to the mainland dictates the level of tactical pressure across the island chains.
Tactical Approaches
- • Air & Maritime Blockade
- • Kinetic Infrastructure Strikes
- • Joint Island Attack Campaign
Space Domain
Emerging as the second-most capable space power with counter-space focus.
Cyber Domain
Active pre-positioning and intellectual property theft through Military-Civil Fusion.
Global Logistics
Seeking dual-use facilities globally to support sustained naval operations.