A recent analysis of China’s military capabilities reveals that the Chinese rocket force, a secretive military unit, has significantly expanded the range and diversity of its land-based missile forces. This growth includes the development of missiles capable of striking targets within the US mainland and throughout the Asia Pacific region, including American bases in Guam. The force’s expansion is part of China’s strategic military objectives, which include preparing for a potential invasion of Taiwan and deterring US intervention. The rocket force has test-launched numerous ballistic missiles, signaling a robust enhancement of China’s military strength and posing a strategic challenge for US military planners.
- The maximum range of China’s land-based missiles has doubled since 2015, putting US bases in the Asia Pacific within striking distance.
- China’s secretive rocket force controls a vast array of missiles and is tasked with key military objectives, including the preparation for a possible Taiwan invasion.
- The rocket force has conducted an unprecedented number of ballistic missile tests, surpassing the rest of the world combined.
- Six main bases across China are dedicated to regional defense and strategic objectives, with Base 67 being the most secretive and significant for China’s nuclear deterrent.
- New missile silo fields under construction in deserted areas of China represent the most extensive buildup since the Cold War.
- The rocket force demonstrated its capability to target the entire periphery of Taiwan during military exercises coinciding with Nancy Pelosi’s visit in August 2022.
- The rocket force plays a crucial role in China’s strategy to prevent US and allied intervention in a potential conflict over Taiwan.
- The Don Fang 26 missile, capable of striking both land bases like Guam and aircraft carrier groups, exemplifies the enhanced threat to US military capabilities in the region.
- China’s Ministry of Defense did not respond to a request for comment on the rocket force’s capabilities and expansion.
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