The U.S. Department of Defense has released its 2024 report to Congress detailing the evolving military and security posture of the People’s Republic of China (PRC). The document highlights China’s efforts to modernize the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), advance its global influence, and reshape the international order.
The People’s Liberation Army (PLA), the world’s largest active-duty military force, continues its transformation into a leaner, more mobile, and technologically advanced force, according to a recent report.
With approximately 2.035 million active-duty personnel, 510,000 reserves, and 500,000 paramilitary personnel, the PLA boasts a total force of over 3 million. However, significant changes to its structure are underway as part of its modernization drive.
Missile Arsenal Modernization The PLA Rocket Force (PLARF) is at the forefront of China’s precision strike capabilities, fielding a comprehensive inventory of conventional and nuclear-capable missiles. These include short-, medium-, and intermediate-range ballistic missiles (SRBM, MRBM, and IRBM) as well as ground-launched cruise missiles (GLCM). Notable systems include:
- DF-15 (CSS-6) SRBM with a range of 725-850 km.
- DF-21D (CSS-5 Mod 5) Anti-Ship Ballistic Missile, capable of targeting aircraft carriers over 1,500 km away.
- DF-26 IRBM, which can deliver conventional or nuclear warheads and strike targets across the Western Pacific, Indian Ocean, and South China Sea.
The PLARF is also investing heavily in hypersonic technology. The DF-17, equipped with a hypersonic glide vehicle (HGV), provides advanced capabilities to evade radar and missile defenses. Reports indicate the DF-17 is designed for precision strikes on military bases and fleets, with its inventory steadily expanding.
Nuclear Force Expansion The report underscores the PLA’s focus on developing more survivable intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs). The DF-41, a road-mobile, solid-fueled ICBM, is now operationally deployed and capable of reaching most locations in the continental United States. With approximately 400 ICBMs in its arsenal, China is also exploring advanced delivery systems, including a fractional orbital bombardment system (FOB). Such systems could enhance its ability to conduct long-range precision strikes against high-value targets globally.
Emerging Threats and Strategic Capabilities China’s missile advancements extend to the development of the DF-27, which reportedly has a range of 5,000 to 8,000 km. This missile is designed for conventional land-attack and anti-ship roles, with the ability to strike high-value targets as far as Guam. Analysts highlight that these systems demonstrate China’s ability to project power far beyond its immediate region.
Implications for Global Security The PLA’s growing missile capabilities, combined with its efforts to modernize ground, naval, and air forces, underscore its intent to establish a dominant position in global military affairs. The report notes that the PLA’s advancements challenge the balance of power, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region, raising concerns among neighboring countries and the international community.
As the PLA continues its modernization drive, its evolving capabilities are poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the global security landscape for years to come.