In depth: US and China’s complex arms race over Taiwan
Long-range unmanned surface vessels (LRUSVs) transit the Pacific Ocean during the Integrated Battle Problem (IBP) 24.1 in March 2024. (Photo: Ian Delossantos/US Navy)
The US and China have been engaging in a complex game of mutual deterrence over Taiwan in a race that features a bewildering range of different equipment.
Contents
- China prepares for 2027
- US launches Replicator programme
- US and Taiwan accelerate drone deployments
- After the swarms
- China claims it can counter US drone swarms and conventional units
- China’s hybrid warfare assets
China prepares for 2027
China’s President Xi Jinping has tasked the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) with developing the capability to be able to invade the self-ruled island of Taiwan by 2027, according to Admiral John Aquilino, head of the US Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM).
Speaking to press in April 2024, Aquilino said China had continued a military build-up and increased air and sea intrusions into Taiwanese-controlled airspace and
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Defence Notes
-
![UK releases security strategy and plans for future defence spending boost]()
UK releases security strategy and plans for future defence spending boost
The UK’s National Security Strategy brings together the recently released Strategic Defence Review (SDR), Strategic Security Review, AUKUS Review and Industrial and Trade Strategies. At the same time, the UK made a commitment to reach defence spending of 5% of GDP by 2035 and Germany committed to 3.5% by 2029.
-
![Pentagon’s FY26 defence budget proposal is $130 billion more than US Congress plans to provide]()
Pentagon’s FY26 defence budget proposal is $130 billion more than US Congress plans to provide
The House Committee on Appropriations approved a FY2026 bill reducing investments in main defence programmes.
-
![What role could holographic and 3D capabilities play in the warfare of tomorrow]()
What role could holographic and 3D capabilities play in the warfare of tomorrow
Holographic and 3D technologies have been lauded by some for their ability to provide technical and operational advantages for military training and planning. But is the hype truly justified?
-
![Unfolding the Golden Dome for America: Seven things you should know about the programme]()
Unfolding the Golden Dome for America: Seven things you should know about the programme
Shephard talked to multiple experts about the most pressing concerns and considerations regarding the air defence system advocated by President Trump.
-
![Industry welcomes UK Strategic Defence Review, but pressure remains on future defence investment plans]()
Industry welcomes UK Strategic Defence Review, but pressure remains on future defence investment plans
While industry reception to the SDR has been positive, questions still remain from analyst and trade associations about what this could mean for future investment and the future UK Defence Industrial Strategy.
