Why It Matters?

This CCTV report offers insights from Chinese military analysts on evolving US strategic thought. It details perceived US intentions in space weaponization and future warfighting concepts like distributed operations. Understanding these US plans and the associated challenges, as viewed from China, is vital for assessing the trajectory of military competition and potential PLA responses. The focus on base vulnerability and space-based missile defense directly impacts regional security dynamics.

Tell Me More!

The United States military is increasingly focusing on the space domain for future conflicts. This shift is outlined in the "Department of the Air Force 2050" report. Chinese military analysts have examined the report's implications for US strategy.

The report predicts space will become the "decisive domain for nearly all military operations" by 2050. The US Air Force aims to use space for missile warning, targeting, communications, and battle management. Air superiority concepts are also changing, with forward bases seen as vulnerable to long-range precision strikes.

Military Expert Du Wenlong, on CCTV, analyzed US space strategy. He noted US expansion into space is long-standing, dating back to the Kennedy era's focus on the "high ground." While previously focused on militarization (using space assets for ground support), Du sees a shift towards weaponization. "Now, they view militarization as a major process and weaponization as a major trend," Du stated. He termed orbital engagement an additional combat domain, a concept some call "black war."

Du highlighted key trends in US space strategy. First is enhancing space access through military-civilian partnerships and rapid launch capabilities. "Joint military-civilian space access capability will increase rapidly," he predicted. Second is weaponization, evidenced by tests like the X-37B spaceplane, target capture, and refueling exercises. Du believes this points towards capabilities "to approach, destroy, or interfere with targets."

He also noted US focus on space interception, particularly against hypersonic missiles. Du suggested launching a "constellation" could enable space-based weapons to guide interceptors. "In Earth orbit, the U.S. wants not only defensive shields but also offensive spearheads," Du concluded.

Military Commentator Wei Dongxu focused on the report's concerns about base vulnerability. He cited Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall's emphasis on the insecurity of overseas bases during potential major power conflicts. Wei noted threats from "long-range cruise missiles, ballistic missiles, and hypersonic missiles" that could neutralize these facilities.

Wei explained this vulnerability drives the US push for distributed operations. This involves "increased cooperation with allies, using more bases for force dispersal." The goal is to decentralize operations, supported by space-based intelligence and AI, allowing forces to disperse but aggregate quickly for attack.

However, Wei stressed the difficulty of this concept. "Achieving this operational concept is very difficult," he stated. It requires more funding, new technologies, and deep cooperation from allies. Wei concluded, "Currently, these aspects all face problems or obstructive factors." The analysis suggests the US faces major hurdles in realizing its vision for future warfare.

Source: https://tv.cctv.com/2025/04/28/VIDEatq5xPdgpSJxrARNsyKd250428.shtml

[兵器面面观]未来的25年 美军将会把目光更多地聚焦在太空领域

In the Next 25 Years, the US Military Will Focus More on the Space Domain

《2050空军部》报告预测，到2050年，美国空军所面临的战争形态将发生重大变化。太空领域将成为几乎所有军事行动的决定性战场。

到那时美空军将借助太空资源为联合部队提供全方位的作战支持。涵盖导弹预警和跟踪、核爆炸探测、实时瞄准、安全通信和战斗管理等领域。

与此同时制空权依然是决定军事行动成败的关键要素，但其实现方式、 时间和地点都可能发生显着变化。一方面，美军前沿部署基地极易遭受精确导弹攻击；

另一方面，随着射程更远、精度更高的导弹不断涌现，防空武器的交战范围正拓展至前所未有的广度。射程超过1600公里的制空武器的大量部署将使加油机等传统上相对安全的飞机面临较大威胁。

The "Department of the Air Force 2050" report predicts significant changes in warfare for the U.S. Air Force by 2050. Space will become the decisive domain for nearly all military operations.

The Air Force will leverage space resources to provide comprehensive combat support for joint forces. This includes missile warning and tracking, nuclear detonation detection, real-time targeting, secure communications, and battle management.

Meanwhile, air superiority remains key to military success. But how, when, and where it's achieved may change markedly. U.S. forward bases are highly vulnerable to precision missile attacks.

Also, increasingly long-range, high-precision missiles are expanding air defense engagement ranges unprecedentedly. The widespread deployment of air combat weapons with ranges exceeding 1,600 kilometers (1000 miles) will pose greater threats to traditionally safer aircraft like tankers.

《兵器面面观》主持人周瑜：刚才的短片当中提到，未来的25年美军将会把目光更多地聚焦在太空领域。杜先生您来给我们解读一下美国的太空战略如何？

Zhou Yu (host): The clip mentioned that in the next 25 years, the U.S. military will focus more on the space domain. Mr. Du, could you interpret the U.S. space strategy for us?

军事专家杜文龙：肯尼迪时代就声称，谁占领了制高点，谁就会在全球军事过程中赢得主动。所以美国军事在太空的扩张不是今天的事。

而之前美国要求太空军事化， 比如说各种侦察预警导航卫星全部用于地球地面资产的作战行动，但现在认为军事化有可能是个大进程，武器化是个大趋势。

如果把之前服务于地面作战行动改成在地球轨堂上交战，这样和其他国家相比，它多了个作战空间，所以很多人把这个过程叫“黑色战争”。因为大气层什么都看不到，之外就是太空。

所以美国目前，无论是2019年太空军的建立到现在各种军型卫星的发射，包括那个不知踪迹的X-37B（空天飞机）。他到底想做什么是大问题。目前看呢美国的所谓太空战略大概可以这样归纳。

Military Expert Du Wenlong: Since the Kennedy era, it was claimed that whoever controls the high ground wins initiative in global military affairs. So, U.S. military expansion into space is not new.

Previously, the U.S. pushed for space militarization. For example, various reconnaissance, early warning, and navigation satellites supported terrestrial combat operations. Now, they view militarization as a major process and weaponization as a major trend.

Shifting from supporting ground operations to engaging in Earth orbit gives them an additional combat domain compared to other nations. Many call this process "black war" because beyond the atmosphere, where nothing is visible, lies space.

Currently, from the establishment of the Space Force in 2019 to launching various military satellites, including the elusive X-37B spaceplane, what the U.S. truly intends is a major question. America's space strategy can likely be summarized as follows.

首先是进入太空。目前美国不光是这个军工企业，包括各军民种能够进入太空，他的民企也很多，所以下一步呢军民联合进入太空这个能力会快速增加，所以快速响应发射，包括这个卫星的双用途军民两用都会成为今后的发展趋势。

第二呢就是太空武器化。目前美国在太空中进行了空间飞机的试飞，而且还进行了对目标的捕获，包括燃料加注。也说明如果能够靠近目标，然后去催毁目标、干扰目标。

这是今后太空战点对点的一个重要发展趋势。另外美国还高度重视太空拦截，像他对高超音速导弹目前没有太好的办法。

但如果能够发射“星座”，然后依托星载武器装备引导地面武器装备联合作战，这样就可以对对方的高超音速等导弹进行拦截，而且引导自己武器装备搞攻击。所以下一步美国在地球轨道上，不光要有防御、有盾牌，更想要的是进攻的“矛尖”。

First is space access. Currently, not just U.S. defense contractors, but various military and civilian entities can access space; many private enterprises are involved. So, joint military-civilian space access capability will increase rapidly. Rapid response launch and dual-use (military-civilian) satellites will become future development trends.

Second is space weaponization. The U.S. has conducted spaceplane test flights and performed target captures, including refueling. This indicates the ability to approach, destroy, or interfere with targets.

This point-to-point capability is a key trend in future space warfare. The U.S. also highly values space interception. They currently lack effective means against hypersonic missiles.

But launching a "constellation" and using space-based weapons to guide ground-based assets in joint operations could enable interception of hypersonic missiles. It could also guide their own offensive strikes. Therefore, in Earth orbit, the U.S. wants not only defensive shields but also offensive spearheads.

《兵器面面观》主持人周瑜：不仅是进入太空，而且防御和进攻都会在这个高度来完成。另外在《2050年空军部》报告当中，还有这样的一句话说：到2050年美国将会面临来自任何射程任何领域包括太空发射的超远程精确武器的威胁。那关于报告当中这些关于超远程精确武器的描述，魏先生您如何解读？

Zhou Yu (host): Not just entering space, but defense and offense will occur at this altitude.

Also, the "Department of the Air Force 2050" report states: "In 2050, we should expect to be under the threat of ultra-long-range precision weapons at any range and launched from any domain, including space. There will be no sanctuary from these weapons."

Mr. Wei, how do you interpret the report's descriptions of these ultra-long-range precision weapons?

军事评论员魏东旭：肯德尔对于美国空军能够使用的海外军事基地是非常重视的。因为正是有着这些军事基地的保障支持，美国空军才可以进行全球部署、全球作战。

但是一旦美国挑起了大国冲突或者是大国战争，肯德尔认为这些海外军事基地的安全，他们是无法保障的，因为各种各样的远程火力打击体系是越来越完善，远射程的巡航导弹、弹道导弹、高超音速导弹是有能力针对这些海外军事基地去进行去功能化，对它进行火力覆盖、对它进行摧毁。

那么肯德尔认为如果没有办法针对这些海外的军事设施进行全方位的保护，美国空军有再多先进的战斗机、轰炸机，包括其他辅助类的作战平台也没有办法在遥远的区域去执行作战任务，更谈不上去战胜对手。

所以他现在提出美国要更多地去和盟友进行合作，利用更多的基地进行这种兵力的分散，也就是说在未来的25年之内美国空军的这种分布式的作战理念还要不断地推进。那么要把它传统的这样一个作战体系进行最大程度的分散化。

然后再利用天基的情报系统作为支撑，再利用人工智能系统作为保障，那么能够随时地进行这种力量的分配和调整，那么做到力量分配。

但是要执行进攻任务的时候，马上就可以进行这种作战体系的一个聚合，但是想要实现这样的一个作战意图难度是非常大的。

不仅要有越来越多的资金支持，可能还要有专门的保障技术，甚至还要有更多的盟友要和美国进行深度的配合。现在来看这些方面都面临一些问题或者说面临一些这种阻碍性的因素。

Military Commentator Wei Dongxu: Kendall places great importance on the overseas military bases available to the U.S. Air Force. Because these bases provide the support enabling global deployment and operations.

However, Kendall believes that if the U.S. provokes major power conflict or war, the security of these overseas bases cannot be guaranteed. Various long-range strike systems are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Long-range cruise missiles, ballistic missiles, and hypersonic missiles can neutralize these bases through firepower saturation and destruction.

Kendall believes if these overseas facilities cannot be fully protected, the U.S. Air Force cannot execute missions in distant regions. This holds true regardless of having advanced fighters, bombers, or support platforms, let alone defeat adversaries.

So, he proposes increased cooperation with allies, using more bases for force dispersal. This means the Air Force's distributed operations concept must continue advancing over the next 25 years. They need to maximally decentralize their traditional operational architecture.

Then, use space-based intelligence for support and artificial intelligence for assurance. This allows flexible force allocation and adjustment.

Forces can be distributed but quickly aggregated for offensive missions when needed. Achieving this operational concept is very difficult.

It requires not only more funding but possibly specialized support technologies. It also needs more allies willing to cooperate deeply with the U.S. Currently, these aspects all face problems or obstructive factors.

Why It Matters?

This development within the US military's nuclear modernization effort is crucial for understanding the strategic balance. China closely monitors US advancements and challenges in strategic weapons systems. Difficulties in the Sentinel program could influence perceptions of US capabilities and potentially affect China's own strategic planning and arms development pace. The justifications used for the program reflect US strategic thinking towards competitors like China.

Tell Me More!

The United States Air Force is working to replace its long-serving Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs). This effort centers on the development of the next-generation LGM-35A Sentinel ICBM. However, the ambitious program is encountering significant obstacles, according to recent analysis.

Military commentator Wei Dongxu, speaking on a CCTV program, highlighted issues facing the Sentinel. He noted the Minuteman III's extended service life necessitates its replacement. The Sentinel program was initiated for this purpose.

Wei pointed out serious problems discovered during project reviews. "Relevant U.S. departments found serious cost overrun issues," Wei stated. He suggested, "The Sentinel ICBM development might face more cost problems due to further audits." This indicates ongoing financial difficulties for the crucial modernization project.

Despite these challenges, key figures are defending the program. Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall has actively endorsed the Sentinel project. Wei observed that Kendall, in the "Department of the Air Force 2050" report, "has been endorsing the Sentinel project," emphasizing its importance.

Kendall's advocacy stresses the need for enhanced US nuclear deterrence. He argues the US must compete in a nuclear arms race environment. This rationale aims "to protect the research and development budget for the next-generation Sentinel ICBM," according to Wei.

This situation reveals internal dynamics within the US defense establishment. Wei suggests "this struggle between old and new power structures might affect the R&D and deployment" of strategic weapons. He concluded that "the development and deployment of the Sentinel could potentially encounter internal resistance within the United States."

These hurdles raise questions about the timeline and ultimate success of replacing a core component of the US nuclear triad. The challenges facing Sentinel are watched closely by global powers, including China, as they assess the trajectory of US strategic capabilities.

Source: https://tv.cctv.com/2025/04/28/VIDEGdU2GIolDpKxpKiLDsRM250428.shtml

[兵器面面观]“哨兵”洲际弹道导弹的研制和装备可能会遇到来自美国内部的阻力

《兵器面面观》主持人周瑜：那么在美国“三位一体”的核体系当中，“哨兵”洲际导弹是不是能承担起这个角色？

CCTV "Weaponry Outlook" Host Zhou Yu: Within the US nuclear triad, can the Sentinel intercontinental missile truly fulfill its intended role?

军事评论员魏东旭：美国空军掌握两种战略威慑和打击手段，分别是刚才杜老师提到的战略轰炸机以及发射井当中的洲际弹道导弹。

Military Commentator Wei Dongxu: The US Air Force controls two strategic deterrence methods. These are strategic bombers and silo-based intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs).

现在的美国空军所使用的“民兵”III型的洲际弹道导弹服役的时间比较长，是需要对它进行这种替代，所以它已经启动了新一代的“哨兵”洲际弹道导弹的研发项目。

The current Minuteman III ICBMs used by the Air Force have been in service for a long time. They require replacement, leading to the Sentinel next-generation ICBM development program.

这个项目其实已经启动，但是此前美国有关部门对项目进行审查的过程当中，就发现了一些严重的成本超支的问题，那么“哨兵”洲际弹道导弹的研发可能也面临更多的这种查账所导致的这种成本超支的问题。

This program has already commenced. However, reviews by relevant US departments uncovered significant cost overruns. The Sentinel's development may face further scrutiny due to these budget issues.

所以肯德尔在《2050年空军部》这份报告当中，一直在为“哨兵”的项目去进行背书，强调它的重要性，那么强调美国要和其他国家进行这种核武器的军备竞赛，要强化自身的核威慑能力。

Air Force Secretary Kendall endorsed the Sentinel in the "Air Force 2050" report. He emphasized its importance for US nuclear deterrence amid competition with other nations.

那么就是试图保住“哨兵”新一代洲际弹道导弹的研发预算，那么这种新旧权力体系的博弈可能也会影响很多具有战略属性武器装备的研发和装备，说不定“哨兵”的研制和装备可能都会遇到来自美国内部的阻力。

Kendall aims to secure the Sentinel's development budget. Yet, internal power dynamics could affect strategic weapon programs, potentially creating resistance to Sentinel's development and deployment within the US itself.

The Department of the Air Force's 2050 vision requires the B-21 Raider stealth bomber. It also needs the LGM-35A Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). These systems form the core of America's future nuclear "triad."

Unveiled in late 2022, the B-21 Raider is designed for advanced missions. Manufacturer Northrop Grumman states it can carry long-range conventional and nuclear weapons. It aims to be a visible, flexible part of the US nuclear arsenal.

America expects the B-21 to evade sophisticated air defenses using stealth. The goal is striking deep strategic targets with conventional or nuclear payloads. This capability is termed "penetrating air superiority."

The Sentinel ICBM is another key modernization piece, replacing the aging Minuteman III. Despite significant cost overruns, the Northrop Grumman project continues. Air Force leaders deem Sentinel vital for maintaining US nuclear deterrence.

However, Chinese military commentary suggests unease about the B-21's potential. Speaking on the "Weaponry Aspects" program on state broadcaster CCTV, expert Du Wenlong offered analysis.

Du described the B-21 as both America's "dream machine" and its "contradiction machine." The dream involves achieving penetrating strikes against modern defenses. Carrying nuclear weapons deep into enemy territory is seen as crucial.

Du noted Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall's long-standing focus on B-21 development. Yet, Du sees the bomber as potentially an "awkward machine." Many ambitious ideas for it may prove difficult to realize.

He controversially labeled the B-21 a "stripped-down version" of the earlier B-2 bomber. Its wingspan is only 80% of the B-2's size. Its weapon payload capacity is reportedly just 50% of its predecessor.

Du questioned if this smaller aircraft justifies its cost. Can it truly handle major responsibilities in the air-based nuclear force? He argued its ability to ensure global air or nuclear dominance is uncertain.

This places the B-21 in an "awkward" position, Du concluded. It faces significant question marks within the USAF and globally. It struggles to fit the role of a next-gen nuclear strike platform.

FULL TRANSCRIPT (Original + Translated)

Source: https://tv.cctv.com/2025/04/28/VIDET82y4NziYRALnnpoCrUh250428.shtml

2050年空军部报告中写道，美国空军将需要采购并维护B-21“突袭者”隐身轰炸机和“哨兵”洲际弹道导弹作为国家“三位一体”核力量的核心。

The Department of the Air Force 2050 report states that the U.S. Air Force will need to procure and maintain the B-21 Raider stealth bomber and the Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile as the core of the nation's nuclear "triad"

• Nuclear triad is a three-pronged military force structure of land-based intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs), and strategic bombers with nuclear bombs and missiles.

B-21“突袭者”隐身轰炸机于2022年12月2日首次对外公开亮相。据B-21的制造商诺格公司官方网站介绍，B-21能够携带远程常规弹药与核弹药，将是美国“三位一体”核打击能力中可见的和灵活的组成部分。

美国期望B-21可以通过隐身能力突破对手的预警防空网，对敌方纵深地域的战略目标发起常规攻击或核轰炸，实现穿透性制空能力。

The B-21 "Raider" stealth bomber was first publicly unveiled on December 2, 2022. According to the official website of B-21 manufacturer Northrop Grumman, the B-21 can carry long-range conventional and nuclear munitions and will be a visible and flexible component of the U.S. nuclear "triad" strike capability.

The U.S. expects the B-21 to penetrate adversary early warning air defense networks with its stealth capabilities, launching conventional attacks or nuclear bombing against strategic targets deep within enemy territory, achieving penetrating air superiority capability.

作为美国核力量现代化项目的重要组成部分，LGM-35A“哨兵”洲际弹道导弹项目，虽然在研制过程中严重超支，但仍在继续推进中，该导弹同样由美国诺格公司负责研发，旨在更换“民兵”III洲际导弹。美国空军领导人认为，“哨兵”洲际弹道导弹对维持美国的核威慑至关重要。

As an important part of the U.S. nuclear modernization program, the LGM-35A Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile project, despite significant cost overruns during development, is still advancing; the missile is also being developed by Northrop Grumman and aims to replace the LGM-30G Minuteman III intercontinental missile. U.S. Air Force leaders believe the Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile is crucial for maintaining America's nuclear deterrence.

《兵器面面观》主持人周瑜：刚才的短片介绍了2050年空军部报告当中提及的美国下一代空基核威慑力量，那么我们先请杜先生来为我们分析一下B-21“突袭者”隐身轰炸机在美国“三位一体”的这种核体系当中到底承担了一个什么样的角色？

"Weaponry Aspects" Host Zhou Yu: The previous segment introduced the next-generation U.S. air-based nuclear deterrent forces mentioned in the Department of the Air Force 2050 report. Let's first ask Mr. Du to analyze for us what role the B-21 Raider stealth bomber actually plays in the U.S. nuclear "triad" system?

军事专家杜文龙：首先这款飞机是美国的“梦想之机”，但同时又是美国的“矛盾之机”，所以美国对这种飞机大概有两种看法。

第一种认为它可以实现美国梦想，穿透性的空袭行动，因为防空体系越来越严密，要想穿过对方的雷达体系，包括防空武器装备，把炸弹、导弹准确投到对方头上，现在看只是个梦想。

在今后“三位一体”核打击过程中，它将会携带着核武器，然后在对方头顶上炸开蘑菇云，所以这点对美国空军来讲至关重要。难怪弗兰克•肯德尔这么多年一直对B-21的发展提出了自己的一些想法。

Military Expert Du Wenlong: First, this aircraft is America's "dream machine," but at the same time, it is America's "contradiction machine," so the U.S. has roughly two views on this aircraft.

The first view is that it can realize America's dream of penetrating air strike operations. Because air defense systems are becoming increasingly stringent, wanting to penetrate the opponent's radar systems, including air defense weaponry, and accurately drop bombs and missiles on the opponent's head is currently just a dream.

In future "triad" nuclear strikes, it will carry nuclear weapons and then detonate mushroom clouds above the opponent's head, so this point is crucial for the U.S. Air Force. No wonder Frank Kendall has been putting forward some of his own ideas about the B-21's development for so many years.

军事专家杜文龙：另外从全球包括美国的希望来看，它又是“尴尬之机”，很多想法特别好，但是实现不了。

比如现在跟B-2相比，它就是B-2“乞丐版”，翼展只有b2的80%，载弹量只有B-2的50%，花了这么多钱，然后搞出一个不伦不类的小飞机，那么今后它在美国“三位一体”核打击，特别是空基这一级中能否承担大任，这是大问题。

所以总的感觉这架“乞丐版”的小飞机它能不能够承担美国期望的所谓全球空中霸权优势，全球空中核优势现在都存在着比较大的问号，所以B-21在美国空军，包括全球下一代空中核打击的平台过程中非常尴尬。

Military Expert Du Wenlong: Additionally, from the perspective of global hopes, including those of the U.S., it is also an "awkward machine"; many ideas are particularly good, but cannot be realized.

For example, compared to the B-2 now, it is a "stripped-down version" of the B-2. Its wingspan is only 80% of the B-2's, and its payload capacity is only 50% of the B-2's. Having spent so much money to create an nondescript small aircraft, whether it can undertake significant responsibilities in the future U.S. "triad" nuclear strike, especially in the air-based leg, is a big question.

So the overall feeling is that whether this "stripped-down version" small aircraft can bear the so-called global air supremacy advantage and global air nuclear advantage that the U.S. expects is now a big question mark. Therefore, the B-21 is very awkward within the U.S. Air Force and in the process of being a platform for the next generation of global air nuclear strikes.

《兵器面面观》主持人周瑜：所以说被称为六代机，只是一个口头上的称呼，而刚才您所提到的这种穿透性制空其实也是一个空中楼阁。

"Weaponry Aspects" Host Zhou Yu: So, being called a sixth-generation aircraft is just a verbal designation, and the penetrating air superiority you mentioned earlier is actually also a castle in the air.

Military Analyst Du Wenlong described Kendall's assessment as being "full of contradictions." He highlighted the disconnect between the vision to "reshape the battlefield" and current US capabilities.

Du stated achieving such goals is "impossible without technological follow-up, equipment follow-up, and various comprehensive support measures." He emphasized a perceived lack of sufficient innovation and necessary "new technological paths."

Military commentator Wei Dongxu asserted the report reveals "hostility towards other countries between the lines." He noted Kendall describes Russia as a "long-term rival," likely to "highlight the important role of the US Air Force." Wei also saw "a lot of anxiety and self-aggrandizement" within the document.

Wei pointed to US struggles with funding and developing new weapons systems. He suggested hyping platforms like the Sentinel missile aimed to secure "more military funding." Despite these efforts, Wei concluded, "American air hegemony... is gradually weakening and disintegrating... I believe this trend will not change."

In his final thinktank engagement with Center for Strategic & International Studies, Kendall discussed the report which outlined future challenges and ambitious goals for US air and space forces.

FULL TRANSCRIPT (Original + Translated)

Source: https://tv.cctv.com/2025/04/28/VIDEkJEEXRlf2kbPzznrvqFF250428.shtml

[兵器面面观]美国空军部前部长弗兰克·肯德尔离任前发表重要报告

[Weapons Aspects] Former U.S. Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall Issues Important Report Before Leaving Office

2025年1月13日，美国空军部前部长弗兰克肯德尔在一份题为2050年空军部的正式报告中，提出了美国空军和太空部队在未来25年里可能面临的安全挑战以及应对措施。

On January 13, 2025, former U.S. Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall, in an official report titled "The Department of the Air Force in 2050," presented the potential security challenges and corresponding measures the U.S. Air Force and Space Force might face in the next 25 years.

报告表示到2050年美国空军所面临的战争形态将发生重大变革。为了应对这些变化，报告鼓吹大力扩张美国空天部队，预计到2050年美太空部队的人员规模将从当前的约1万人增加数倍。2050年空军部还突出强调制空权和空基核威慑力量的重要性，描绘了美国空军未来的发展方向。

The report stated that the form of warfare faced by the U.S. Air Force will undergo significant changes by 2050. To cope with these changes, the report advocates for a major expansion of U.S. air and space forces, predicting that the personnel size of the U.S. Space Force will multiply several times from the current approximately 10,000 by 2050. "The Air Force Department in 2050" also emphasized the importance of air superiority and air-based nuclear deterrence, outlining the future direction of the U.S. Air Force.

除了对未来战争形态的预测，该报告还提出了美国空军与太空部队所面临的困境，预算受限，不愿淘汰过时的平台，不愿接受新技术，并充分利用它们。弗兰克肯德尔说，所有这些都会对我们实现目标的能力产生负面影响。

In addition to predictions about future warfare, the report also highlighted dilemmas faced by the U.S. Air Force and Space Force: limited budgets, reluctance to retire obsolete platforms, and unwillingness to embrace and fully leverage new technologies. Frank Kendall stated, "All of these will negatively impact our ability to achieve objectives."

《兵器面面观》主持人周瑜：通过刚才的短片，我们了解到2050年空军部这份报告一方面揭示了霸权思维下美国空军和太空部队的野心，另外一方面也提出了他们在现阶段自认为所面临的困境。那么两位你们是如何看待和解读这份报告的？

"Weapons Aspects" Host Zhou Yu: From the short video clip just now, we understand that this "Air Force Department in 2050" report, on one hand, reveals the ambitions of the U.S. Air Force and Space Force under hegemonic thinking, and on the other hand, also points out the difficulties they perceive themselves facing at the current stage. So, how do you two view and interpret this report?

军事专家杜文龙：肯德尔这份离职报告充满了矛盾，我特别关注他所谓的重塑战场格局，跟目前技术创新发展不够这种矛盾。如果重新塑造格局需要概念，需要装备、需要技术，更需要想象，所以它描绘了今后太空战是什么样，然后空基作战是什么样，但是在在争夺所谓绝对霸权的这种期望之下，明显的又出现能力不足，而且新的技术路径开发也明显缺乏，所以如果真的去重塑战场格局，强调整个太空和天空在未来作战过程中的绝对主导作用，但如果没有技术跟进，没有装备跟进，没有各种综合措施保障，不可能做到。

Military Expert Du Wenlong: Kendall's departure report is full of contradictions. I particularly focus on the contradiction between his so-called "reshaping the battlefield pattern" and the current insufficient technological innovation and development. If reshaping the pattern requires concepts, equipment, technology, and even more imagination—so it depicts what future space warfare and air-based operations will look like—but under the expectation of competing for so-called absolute hegemony, there is clearly insufficient capability, and the development of new technological paths is also clearly lacking. Therefore, if one truly wants to reshape the battlefield pattern, emphasizing the absolute dominance of space and the sky in future combat operations, it is impossible without technological follow-up, equipment follow-up, and various comprehensive support measures.

军事评论员魏东旭：美国空军是戴着有色眼镜看待整个世界，因此肯德尔他所公布的2050年的空军部这份报告当中，字里行间流露出了很多针对其他国家的这种敌意。首先在未来25年，那么肯德尔把俄罗斯描述为美国空军的长期对手，那么借此要针对美国政府进行恐吓，那么要彰显美国空军的重要作用。与此同时在这份报告当中也有很多的焦虑，也有很多的自我吹嘘。比如说在这种新式武器装备的研发方面，美国空军显然是面临阻力，也面临资金短缺的问题。那么在吹嘘的这方面，肯德尔拼命的强调哨兵新一代洲际弹道导弹它的重要作用，而且还把b21“突袭者”隐身轰炸机吹嘘成了这种全能型的装备，那么是借此希望向美国政府、美国国会要更多的军费去支持美国空军，那么构建起全新的作战体系。那么在焦虑和这种吹嘘的这样的一些内容当中，我们也注意到现在美国的空中霸权体系是在逐步的弱化，在逐步的瓦解，无论肯德尔能为美国空军争取到多少资源，我相信这个趋势是不会变的。

Military Commentator Wei Dongxu: The U.S. Air Force views the entire world through colored glasses. Therefore, in this "Air Force Department in 2050" report published by Kendall, a lot of hostility towards other countries is revealed between the lines. Firstly, for the next 25 years, Kendall describes Russia as a long-term rival for the U.S. Air Force, using this to intimidate the U.S. government and highlight the important role of the U.S. Air Force. At the same time, there is a lot of anxiety and self-aggrandizement in this report. For example, in the research and development of new types of weapons and equipment, the U.S. Air Force is clearly facing resistance and funding shortages. In terms of boasting, Kendall desperately emphasizes the important role of the Sentinel new-generation intercontinental ballistic missile, and also hypes the B-21 "Raider" stealth bomber as this kind of all-powerful equipment. This is done in the hope of asking the U.S. government and U.S. Congress for more military funding to support the U.S. Air Force in building a completely new combat system. Amidst such content of anxiety and boasting, we also notice that the U.S. air hegemony system is currently gradually weakening and disintegrating. No matter how many resources Kendall can secure for the U.S. Air Force, I believe this trend will not change.

Three active warships were accessible for public tours during the event. These included:

1. Type 052D guided-missile frigate Jiaozuo (Hull 163)

2. Type 903A comprehensive supply ship Honghu (Hull 906)

3. Type 071 amphibious transport dock Qilian Shan (Hull 985)

Honghu (Hull 906)

The domestically built Honghu replenishment ship attracted significant attention from attendees. This vessel has completed three separate anti-piracy escort missions in the Gulf of Aden. Onboard activities included educational displays and interactive exhibits for visitors.

PLANS Honghu (AOR 906), is a Type 903 comprehensive supply ship designed and constructured by our country, it was launched in June 2015, and commissioned in July, 2016.

Basic Performance

PLANS Honghu is 180 meters long, 25 meters wide, 33 meters high. She has a maximum draft of 10 meters and a maximum displacement of more than 20,000 tons.

Power System

She is equipped with the national production of medium speed diesel engine driven double shafts-, double propellers, double rudders power gear.

Weapon System

PLANS Honghu equipped with 2 laser sights and 4 single-barrel 30 millimeter ship guns. PLANS Honghu can fulfill the mission of self-defence and strike against small surface targets at close range, floating mines, low-altitude incoming aircraft etc.

Replenishment Capability

PLANS Honghu has the supply capacity of two sides, three directions and four stations at the same time. She can supply fuel, fresh water, food, ammunition and other materials to the formation through abeam, astern, vertical, and other ways.

These open house events allow the PLA Navy to connect with the public. They also serve to demonstrate naval developments and operational readiness to a domestic audience.

source: https://tv.cctv.com/2025/04/26/VIDEPMM12V95vvyR9y3IopTX250426.shtml

[正午国防军事]人民海军成立76周年 海军洪湖舰举行舰艇开放日活动

4月23号到27号，南部战区海军在湛江某军港码头举行为期5天的舰艇开放活动活动，也邀请大量市民游客、军迷粉丝不队官兵的家属走进军营，参观海军的现役舰艇，感受人民海军风采。

湛江某军港码头、焦作舰、洪湖舰、祁连山舰三艘战舰面向公众开放，其中我国自主研制的远洋综合补给舰海军洪湖舰备受瞩目，该舰曾三次远赴亚丁湾执行护航任务，是现场观众口中的明星舰，舰上设置了签名打卡、文创合影、国防宣教、互动展示等主题活动区，观众可以参与各式活动，从不同角度近距离感受海军魅力。

来自甘肃省嘉峪关市的岳燕是一名光荣的兵妈妈，他的儿子张越是海军运城舰上的一名水兵，虽然这次开放活动没能见到儿子，但能够登上军舰，亲身感受儿子生活和战斗的地方，她也十分开心和满足。

我来湛江5次都没有见到儿子，他21号又有任务出去了，我又没见着。但是今天来到了军港，我实在是太兴奋了，看见了这么大的军舰，我都差点问要吃救心丸了，我太激动了，希望儿子在部队安心工作，好好服役，努力工作，为家乡为祖国争光，强军有我。

The Type 054A guided-missile frigate Linyi (Hull 547) gained prominence for its role in high-profile overseas missions and participated in multiple anti-piracy escort patrols in the Gulf of Aden.

Most notably, the frigate executed the evacuation of Chinese and foreign nationals from Yemen in 2015. This operation later inspired the popular film "Operation Red Sea".

During the open-house event, visitors toured the warship and interacted with its crew. Naval personnel shared details about the frigate's capabilities and operational history. Interactive displays offered insights into modern naval service.

Commissioned over a decade ago, the Linyi has sailed extensively across global waters. Its deployments have spanned five continents and three major oceans, covering over 400,000 nautical miles. The frigate's missions underscore the PLA Navy's expanding role in protecting China's maritime rights and overseas interests.

Source: https://tv.cctv.com/2025/04/25/VIDE7FIszXPN6lC4eYGETT44250425.shtml

[国防军事早报]人民海军成立76周年 山东青岛 探访海军临沂舰：维护祖国海洋权益 守护人民安全利益

这两天在山东青岛面向公众开放的5艘海军现役主战军舰吸引了众多观众前来参观，其中曾执行也门撤侨，亚丁湾护航等重大任务的导弹护卫舰临沂舰格外引人注目。下面就让我们跟随记者一起登上战舰，近距离大国重器的钢铁脊梁。

在临沂舰的舰载直升机起降平台，官兵向观众介绍临沂舰的基本情况和曾经执行的重重大任务，参观群众还可以参与海军知识互动问答，赢取舰上官兵亲手制作的海军节纪念相框。中国人民海军是哪一年哪一日在哪里成立的？1949年4月23号在白马庙。

近距离的接受接触临沂舰感觉到护卫舰非常的先进，然后同时也知道就是临沂舰执行过很多亚丁湾的任务，所以对他们官兵也产生崇敬。

临沂舰最为大家所熟知的应该还是2015年的也门撤侨行动，这也是当时电影红海行动的原型。虽然已经过去了十几年的时间了，但是我想作为当时参加撤侨行动的官兵们来说，当时很多场景应该还是历历在目。

对印象非常的深刻。还记得当时军舰快要靠到码头的时候，码头上中国公民手中挥舞着鲜艳的五星红旗，口中大喊着祖国来接我们回家了，当时炮火声就在我们身边呼啸而过。

迄今为止，临沂舰的航迹遍布了五大洲，三大洋舰艇到访了16国19港，13年来总航程达40多万海里，最长年航行天数达312天，出海航迹远，大项任务多，荣誉表彰多。临沂舰用这份过硬的成绩单向世界展示出了人民海军的良好形象和强大能力。

在执行亚丁湾护航任务时，我们经常会看到被护商船悬挂的中国国旗，有时他们会向我们挥手致意，或者通过高频无线电向我们喊出感谢祖国军舰为我们护航。作为人民海军的一员，我们时刻准备着维护好祖国的海洋权益，保护好人民的安全利益。

From April 22nd to 25th, residents toured the warship docked in Qinhuangdao, Hebei province. Visitors interacted with sailors and experienced naval culture through demonstrations like flag semaphore. Ship personnel also conducted defense education sessions at local schools during the port call.

The Qinhuangdao (hull number 656) is among China's first domestically designed Type 056A missile corvettes. Commissioned in October 2015, the warship displaces over 1,300 tons at full load. It features modern weapon systems, advanced automation, and enhanced stealth characteristics. The corvette undertakes patrols, escorts, anti-submarine warfare, and surface combat missions.

Source: https://tv.cctv.com/2025/04/25/VIDEK3p0rJYjHDNQyUYcgzMQ250425.shtml

[正午国防军事]人民海军成立76周年 首次“回家”亮相 秦皇岛舰组织开放日活动

4月23号是人民海军成立76周年，海军秦皇岛舰首次在河北省秦皇岛市公开亮相组织开放日活动。

22号上午10点，海军秦皇岛舰缓缓驶入码头，这是秦皇岛舰自2015年加入人民海军战斗序列以来，首次回到秦皇岛市公开亮相，大批秦皇岛市民来到码头，欢迎秦皇岛舰回到家乡。

作为一名秦皇岛籍舰员，能够在秦皇岛舰服役，我感到非常的幸运，但更多的是一种责任，一种担当。这次跟随舰艇回到家乡，内心十分激动和自豪，同时也深深的感受到了家乡人民的热情。

4月22号至25号，秦皇岛舰在秦皇岛市组织开放活动，秦皇岛市民与海军官兵面对面交流，体验具有海军特色的旗语、绳结等海军文化。停靠期间，秦皇岛舰官兵还走进家乡的中小学，开展国防教育进校园活动，

心情特别的激动，这么两天听说秦皇岛见回家了，我作为一名有十几年军龄的老兵，可以说昨晚上兴奋了一晚上也没睡好觉，今天早早就来这排队登上了秦皇岛舰。刚才我登舰的时候有不少中学的，还有一些小朋友，我感觉特别有意义。

秦皇岛舰舷号为656，是我国自行设计建造的首批056A型导弹护卫舰，集成了多种新型武器装备，信息化程度高，隐身性能好，主要担负巡逻警戒、护渔护航，单舰或协同其他兵力反潜和对海作战等使命任务。

On the afternoon of April 24, 2025, Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, Spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense (MND), answered recent media queries concerning the military.

• Time: 15:00—15:53, April 24, 2025

• Location: Office for International Military Cooperation of the Central Military Commission

The briefing covers key topics including bilateral military relations, regional exercises, security assessments, and responses to international developments:

1. Navigator Meeting of Beijing Xiangshan Forum to be held in Beijing

2. Strengthening China-Malaysia Military Ties

3. Philippines' provocations undermine common interests of regional countries

4. China-Egypt Eagles of Civilization 2025 joint air force training deepens cooperation between two militaries

5. Response to US Claims of 'China Threat' and Carrier Visit Queries

6. Deepening China-Cambodia Military Cooperation

7. Japan should stop provoking bloc confrontation and exercise prudence in military and security fields

8. Response to Japanese Concerns Over Drone Activity

9. Chinese military will deepen and expand its participation in UN peacekeeping operations

10. Critique of US Military Exercises in the Asia-Pacific

11. Rebuttal to US Commander's 'Hellscape' Remarks on Taiwan

12. Warning to Philippines on South China Sea Intrusions; Concerns Over Japan-Philippines Pact

13. Dismissal of Taiwan's 'Han Kuang' Exercise and 'Wartime Hub' Plans

14. Opposition to US-Taiwan Military Collusion

Navigator Meeting of Beijing Xiangshan Forum to be held in Beijing

(Also see http://eng.mod.gov.cn/xb/News_213114/NewsRelease/16382669.html for MND’s official release in English)

Zhang Xiaogang: Good afternoon, friends from the media. Welcome to the regular press conference of the Ministry of National Defense.

First, I have an announcement to make.

From April 28th to 30th, the first "Beijing Xiangshan Forum Pilot Conference" will be held in Beijing under the theme "Opportunities and Challenges Facing Global Security." More than 200 defense officials, experts, scholars, and media representatives from over 30 countries and international organizations will attend. Through multilateral discussions and dialogues, the conference aims to enhance the effectiveness of international participation in the forum and contribute wisdom to improving global security governance. During the conference, bilateral and multilateral meetings, as well as cultural and technological visits, are also scheduled.

Strengthening China-Malaysia Military Ties

Journalist: It is reported that President Xi Jinping visited Malaysia. Focusing on building a high-level strategic China-Malaysia community with a shared future, he emphasized deepening exchanges and cooperation in national security, defense, and law enforcement. Could the spokesperson elaborate on the considerations for advancing the development of China-Malaysia military relations?

Zhang Xiaogang: From April 15th to 17th, President Xi Jinping paid a state visit to Malaysia upon invitation, ushering in a new "Golden 50 Years" for China-Malaysia relations. China and Malaysia face each other across the sea, and their traditional friendship spans over a thousand years. Under the strategic guidance of the leaders of both countries, cooperation between the Chinese and Malaysian militaries in various fields has yielded fruitful results. The two sides have established a "2+2" dialogue mechanism for diplomacy and defense, deepened exchanges and cooperation in national security, defense, and law enforcement, and jointly created the "Peace and Friendship" joint exercise, which has become an influential brand of military cooperation.

The people of both China and Malaysia firmly believe that "unity is strength." We are willing to work with the Malaysian side to earnestly implement the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, further strengthen high-level exchanges, deepen strategic mutual trust, carry out more exchanges and cooperation in areas such as joint exercises and training, maritime security, and multilateral coordination, and promote the high-level and high-quality development of bilateral military relations.

Philippines' provocations undermine common interests of regional countries

(also see http://eng.chinamil.com.cn/VOICES/16382652.html for MND’s official release in English)

Journalist: According to reports, the Philippines, the US, and other countries recently held the "Shoulder-to-Shoulder" joint exercise. The US military will deploy anti-ship missile systems in the Luzon Strait in the northern Philippines, marking the first time such systems have been deployed in the Philippines. Some analysts believe this is a rehearsal for blockading the Bashi Channel during a Taiwan Strait crisis. The Philippines and the US previously organized the "Salaknib" ["Thunder Confrontation" in original text, but commonly known as Salaknib] joint exercise. What is the spokesperson's comment on this?

Zhang Xiaogang: We consistently believe that military cooperation between countries should not target any third party or harm third-party interests, nor should it endanger regional peace and stability. The South China Sea should be a sea of peace, cooperation, and friendship. However, the Philippines acts as a jackal for the tiger, catering to and relying on the US and other non-regional countries to provoke trouble, conducting so-called joint exercises and patrols, and introducing and deploying strategic and tactical weapons. This seriously violates the common interests and aspirations of regional countries. We firmly oppose any country using the Taiwan question as a pretext to strengthen regional military deployments and incite tension and confrontation. No matter the circumstances, China will firmly defend its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights and interests, and effectively maintain regional peace and stability.

China-Egypt Eagles of Civilization 2025 joint air force training deepens cooperation between two militaries

(Also see http://eng.mod.gov.cn/xb/News_213114/NewsRelease/16382659.html for MND’s official release in English)

Journalist: Currently, the Chinese and Egyptian air forces are conducting their first joint training. Could the spokesperson share what strategic and tactical achievements have been gained from this training?

Zhang Xiaogang: Thank you for your interest. The "Civilization Eagle-2025" air force joint training is the first joint training organized by the Chinese and Egyptian militaries. Both sides dispatched fighter jets, early warning aircraft, tanker aircraft, helicopters, etc. Starting April 19th, the two sides organized air combat training, aerial refueling, and will subsequently conduct exercises in air support, battlefield search and rescue, and other subjects. The training will continue until early May. The participation of Chinese aircraft training and collaborating with the Egyptian Air Force is conducive to improving the technical and tactical levels of the participating forces of both countries and further deepening and promoting practical cooperation between the Chinese and Egyptian militaries.

Response to US Claims of 'China Threat' and Carrier Visit Queries

Journalist: I have two questions. First, according to reports, the US Secretary of Defense claimed that China is building an army specifically designed to destroy the United States, that China's hypersonic missiles could destroy all US aircraft carriers within 20 minutes, and that the Pentagon has lost every war game simulation against China. The commander of the US Indo-Pacific Command stated that China is producing fighter jets and warships much faster than the US military and already possesses the capability to deny the US air superiority within the "first island chain." What is the spokesperson's comment? Second, the Navy is currently holding ship open day events in 10 cities across the country. Many netizens are asking when we can visit an aircraft carrier. What is the spokesperson's comment?

Zhang Xiaogang: Let me answer the first question first. Some individuals in the US always view the Chinese military through colored glasses, hyping up the so-called "China military threat." I believe this is precisely the obstacle in the current exchanges between the Chinese and US militaries. Non-conflict, non-confrontation, and peaceful coexistence are the most fundamental common interests of China and the United States, and also the common expectation of people around the world. We have a clear understanding of our own development and hope the US does not suffer from a "persecution complex," always using others as an excuse.

Regarding the second question. I fully understand everyone's interest in China's aircraft carrier development. This wish will certainly be realized.

Deepening China-Cambodia Military Cooperation

Journalist: According to reports, President Xi Jinping visited Cambodia. During talks with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, he pointed out the need to build higher-level security safeguards. Please elaborate on the considerations for advancing the development of China-Cambodia military relations.

Zhang Xiaogang: From April 17th to 18th, President Xi Jinping paid a state visit to Cambodia upon invitation, holding meetings and talks with Cambodian leaders, pointing the way forward for jointly building an all-weather China-Cambodia community with a shared future in the new era. China and Cambodia are ironclad friends. Regardless of changes in the international situation, they have always adhered to trustworthiness, supported each other, and achieved mutual success. Under the strategic guidance of the leaders of both countries, high-level military exchanges are frequent, the China-Cambodia Ream Naval Base Joint Support and Training Center has been inaugurated and is operational, the "Golden Dragon" and "Peace Angel" joint exercises have been held, and exchanges in fields such as mine clearance, medical care, and press have continuously deepened. The military relationship between the two countries is rock-solid and unbreakable.

Standing at a new starting point, we are willing to work with the Cambodian side to earnestly implement the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, make good use of the newly established Foreign Minister and Defense Minister "2+2" strategic dialogue mechanism, continuously enrich and expand practical cooperation in areas such as education and training, joint exercises and training, medical and health services, and equipment technology, and push the development of bilateral military relations to a new level.

Japan should stop provoking bloc confrontation and exercise prudence in military and security fields

(Also see http://eng.chinamil.com.cn/VOICES/16382661.html for MND’s official release in English)

Journalist: I have two questions. First, according to Taiwan media reports, there has been a wave of "resignations" within the Taiwan military, with a large number of frontline officers choosing early retirement or resignation to avoid war. Some analysts believe they are unwilling to become cannon fodder for "Taiwan independence." What is the spokesperson's comment? Second, according to reports, Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs released the 2025 edition of its "Diplomatic Bluebook," viewing China as an "unprecedented strategic security challenge" and hyping the situations in the East China Sea and South China Sea, as well as China-Russia military cooperation. The Japanese Defense Minister stated that Japan will spend nearly 2 trillion yen to build two Aegis ships exceeding 10,000 tons, with single-ship firepower configurations far exceeding actual defense needs. What is China's comment on Japan's continuous breakthroughs of the "exclusive defense principle" and acceleration of building offensive combat capabilities?

Zhang Xiaogang: Let me answer the first question first. This shows that "Taiwan independence" is unpopular and doomed to alienation and collapse.

Regarding the second question. We firmly oppose the Japanese side hyping the so-called "China military threat," stirring up regional tensions, and deliberately creating opposition and confrontation. China adheres to the path of peaceful development, pursues a defensive national defense policy, and develops its military capabilities to safeguard national sovereignty, security, and development interests, with no intention of challenging or threatening any country. Exchanges and cooperation between the Chinese and Russian militaries always adhere to the principles of non-alignment, non-confrontation, and not targeting any third party.

In recent years, Japan has repeatedly increased its defense budget substantially and sought breakthrough military development, causing high concern among its Asian neighbors and the international community. We urge the Japanese side to correct its strategic perception of China, stop inciting and creating camp confrontation, act prudently in the military and security fields, and do more things that are conducive to enhancing regional peace and stability.

Response to Japanese Concerns Over Drone Activity

Journalist: According to reports, the Japanese Defense Minister recently stated that China's frequent and expanding military drone activities around Japan are causing concern for Japan and the international community, and Japan will take all necessary measures for vigilance and surveillance. Japan's Ministry of Defense stated that the number of scrambles against Chinese military drones in fiscal year 2024 more than tripled compared to the previous year. What is the spokesperson's comment?

Zhang Xiaogang: The actions of the Chinese military in relevant waters and airspace are consistent with international law and international practice, do not target any specific objective, and aim to enhance the capability to safeguard national sovereignty, security, and development interests. There is absolutely no need for the Japanese side to be unnecessarily alarmed and cause trouble for itself. We demand that the Japanese side stop hyping and interfering with China's actions through tracking and surveillance, to avoid causing misunderstandings, misjudgments, and unforeseen maritime and aerial incidents that could affect the overall relationship between the two countries.

Chinese military will deepen and expand its participation in UN peacekeeping operations

(Also see http://eng.mod.gov.cn/xb/News_213114/NewsRelease/16382683.html for MND’s official release in English)

Journalist: This year marks the 35th anniversary of the Chinese military's participation in UN peacekeeping operations. The Chinese military first dispatched military observers in April 1990 and has now become a key force in UN peacekeeping operations. Could the spokesperson introduce the situation regarding the Chinese military's participation in UN peacekeeping operations?

Zhang Xiaogang: Over the 35 years since the Chinese military began participating in UN peacekeeping operations, it has participated in 25 peacekeeping missions, dispatched over 50,000 peacekeepers to more than 20 countries and regions, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Lebanon, and South Sudan, completing tasks such as mine clearance, medical treatment, security patrols, and protection of civilians. China's "Blue Helmets" have braved dangers and marched forward courageously for world peace. Seventeen officers and soldiers, including Liu Mingfang, Du Zhaoyu, and Shen Liangliang, successively dedicated their youth and precious lives to the cause of UN peacekeeping.

Maintaining peace, protecting people. China is the largest troop contributor among the permanent members of the UN Security Council and the second largest contributor to the UN peacekeeping budget. It maintains an 8,000-strong standby peacekeeping force, covering 10 categories and 28 units, including infantry, medical, and rapid response forces. China conducts peacekeeping exchanges and cooperation with over 90 countries and more than 10 international and regional organizations, creating the international brand of the "Shared" series of peacekeeping operations. Currently, nearly 1,800 Chinese peacekeepers are serving in seven UN mission areas and at the UN headquarters. The Chinese military will continue to enhance the depth and breadth of its participation in UN peacekeeping operations, contributing more to actively practicing the Global Security Initiative and serving the building of a community with a shared future for mankind.

Critique of US Military Exercises in the Asia-Pacific

Journalist: According to reports, the US Chief of Naval Operations announced that the US military will hold large-scale multi-service joint combat exercises in the Pacific to "pressure test" the combat effectiveness of the US military. The US side stated that this exercise aims to prepare for potential conflicts with China in the Pacific region. Additionally, a US B-1B bomber detachment has arrived at Misawa Air Base in Japan, and US MQ-4C long-endurance drones will also be deployed in Okinawa. What is the spokesperson's comment?

Zhang Xiaogang: The Asia-Pacific is a highland for peace and development, not a geopolitical "hunting ground." Persistently showing off force and provoking trouble is the kind of "pressure test" that regional countries do not want to see or bear. We hope the US side will do more things conducive to regional peace and stability, not the opposite. China has always been a force for peace, stability, and progress in the Asia-Pacific region. We never believe in fallacies, fear ghosts, or bow to pressure, and will resolutely safeguard national sovereignty, security, and development interests.

Rebuttal to US Commander's 'Hellscape' Remarks on Taiwan

Journalist: According to reports, the commander of the US Indo-Pacific Command, while attending a US Senate hearing, claimed that "mainland China's increasingly aggressive actions in the Taiwan Strait are not just exercises, but rehearsals for attacking Taiwan." He suggested the US should vigorously enhance autonomous systems and deploy them in the Taiwan Strait to create a "hellscape" to deter China. What is the spokesperson's comment?

Zhang Xiaogang: The Taiwan question is purely China's internal affair, and how to resolve it is a matter for the Chinese people themselves, allowing no external interference. Some individuals in the US make irresponsible remarks and conjectures about China's legitimate and necessary actions to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity, and even attempt to intimidate people with blustering slogans. This precisely exposes their nature of not hesitating to destroy others' homes to maintain their own hegemony and private interests. Threats and blackmail against China do not work, and the Chinese military will not fall for this.

Warning to Philippines on South China Sea Intrusions; Concerns Over Japan-Philippines Pact

Journalist: I have two questions. First, on the 20th of this month, Philippine Coast Guard vessel 36 illegally intruded into the territorial waters of China's Huangyan Dao. The Southern Theater Command Navy lawfully tracked, monitored, warned, and expelled it. Analysts believe that the Philippine side's intrusions, escalating from fishing boats and coast guard vessels to military ship involvement, are an attempt to upgrade the South China Sea issue from "coast guard law enforcement" to "military conflict," leaving room for subsequent diplomatic and public opinion manipulation. What is the spokesperson's comment? Second, according to Japanese media reports, the governments of Japan and the Philippines will begin working on improving laws to facilitate the exchange of classified military intelligence. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba will visit the Philippines at the end of April, seeking confirmation to start preparatory consultations soon to sign a Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) or similar intelligence pact [Original text mentions 《军事情报保护协定》- Military Intelligence Protection Agreement]. The Philippines signed a military intelligence protection agreement with the United States last year. If it also signs such an agreement with Japan, the three countries—Japan, the US, and the Philippines—will be able to closely share intelligence on the South China Sea and the East China Sea. Analysts believe this move is aimed at monitoring and containing the PLA's military presence in the region. What is the spokesperson's comment?

Zhang Xiaogang: Let me answer the first question first. The Southern Theater Command has already responded. We advise the Philippine side to stop its infringements and provocations. If it persists obstinately and acts recklessly, it will inevitably suffer losses and face the consequences.

Regarding the second question. What I want to say is that the Philippines' attempt to "rely on external forces to stir up trouble in the sea" cannot succeed, and the meddling of non-regional countries to cause chaos in the South China Sea is unpopular.

Dismissal of Taiwan's 'Han Kuang' Exercise and 'Wartime Hub' Plans

Journalist: I have two questions. First, according to reports, the Taiwan military's annual exercise "Han Kuang No. 41" began its "computer-assisted command post exercise" phase on April 5th, lasting 14 days and 13 nights. It simulates possible actions by the mainland, such as "gray zone harassment" and "transition from exercise to combat." Taiwan's defense chief Wellington Koo stated that the time required for the PLA to "transition from exercise to combat" has shortened, thus requiring validation and enhancement of the Taiwan military's ability to respond to possible situations at any time. What is the spokesperson's comment? Second, according to reports, the DPP authorities are considering turning approximately 13,000 convenience stores across Taiwan into "wartime hubs" in the event of a "Taiwan Strait war." This is one of the directions being discussed by the Lai Ching-te authorities' "All-out Defense Resilience Committee." What is the spokesperson's comment?

Zhang Xiaogang: Regarding the first question. The "Taiwan independence" armed forces putting on a show of exercises is purely whistling in the dark to bolster courage and seek psychological comfort. No matter how they rehearse, it's a dead end leading to defeat.

Regarding the second question. For the sake of its own party interests, the DPP authorities are vigorously hyping the so-called "mainland threat," creating social panic, and stepping up "preparations for war to seek independence." If they are allowed to persist on this path, Taiwan will inevitably face war and danger. The DPP authorities' clamor for "all-people defense" actually harms all people, turning the island into a battlefield and coercing Taiwan compatriots to become cannon fodder for "Taiwan independence." Their actions are shameful. The PLA resolutely fights "independence" and promotes reunification, firmly safeguarding national sovereignty and territorial integrity. We hope the vast majority of Taiwan compatriots recognize the nature of the DPP authorities' efforts to disrupt and harm Taiwan, take active steps to oppose "Taiwan independence," safeguard their own happy and peaceful lives, and work together across the strait to advance national reunification and rejuvenation.

Opposition to US-Taiwan Military Collusion

Journalist: According to Taiwan media reports, the US side dispatched a former commander of US Forces Korea, a retired US Army general, to serve as a senior observer for this year's "Han Kuang exercise" war games. Additionally, five possible patterns of joint US-Taiwan wartime operations were revealed during the war game phase. What is the spokesperson's comment?

Zhang Xiaogang: We firmly oppose any form of military collusion between the US and Taiwan. Encouraging and supporting "Taiwan independence" undermines peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, and will also lead to those involved getting burned and suffering the consequences. We urge the US side to stop fanning the flames on the Taiwan question, earnestly abide by the one-China principle and the provisions of the three China-US joint communiqués, and translate its commitment not to support "Taiwan independence" into concrete actions. We sternly warn the DPP authorities that "relying on the US to seek independence" will inevitably face backlash and betrayal, and they cannot escape the fate of being an abandoned "pawn."

Zhang Xiaogang: If there are no other questions, today's press conference concludes here. Thank you!

$1,000,000,000,000?

Yes, that’s one trillion dollars!

This past February, the Trump administration claimed the Pentagon would cut military spending by 8% annually for five consecutive years, even planning to eliminate tens of thousands of civilian positions and consolidate military bases to "save costs."

Yet, merely two months later, the American international relations magazine The National Interest revealed on April 11 that despite promises of significant fiscal cuts, the administration still proposed increasing the Pentagon's budget by nearly 12%, hitting the insane threshold of $1 trillion.

Setting aside why the Trump administration reneged on its word—being "Trump-unreliable"—continuing to skyrocket military spending is akin to "robbing Peter to pay Paul" from a US domestic perspective.

Stephen Semler, co-founder of the foreign policy think tank Security Policy Reform Institute, posted on X that the cost of increased military spending is the Trump administration's planned cuts to vital public welfare programs like Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). But the harsh reality is that cutting other federal programs is entirely insufficient to offset the impact of massive military budget increases.

Currently, nearly half of US federal government spending goes to Social Security and healthcare programs, with about 85% of that spent on approximately 75 million elderly and disabled individuals. As America's population ages, this expenditure, a rigid social necessity, will only increase. However, the Trump administration's choice of "guns over butter" will inevitably worsen already severe domestic social problems, unsurprisingly facing opposition from the majority of the American public.

If this trillion-dollar military expenditure were truly, as Trump suggests, mostly used to procure various new equipment for US military branches, replacing aging weapon platforms suffering from industrial base hollowing, perhaps the American people could grit their teeth, tighten their belts, and endure the hardship. However, the hollowing out of American manufacturing isn't a problem solvable overnight.

Furthermore, the Pentagon failed its annual audit for the seventh consecutive year, unable to fully account for its massive budget expenditures. Notably, $1.9 trillion in Defense Department assets could not be reconciled in the Fiscal Year 2023 audit, and the US Congress remains clueless about where this huge sum went—a truly heart-wrenching situation.

Watching insiders and profiteers more brazenly carve up the pie, the American public can no longer tolerate it. How much of this record-high military spending will simply "disappear" amidst chaotic financial management, becoming a feast for certain interest groups?

In fact, America's continued massive channeling of its strained finances into military spending only means the federal debt will keep climbing. The "fiscal gap" will more than double. If coupled with the Trump administration's cherished tax cuts for the wealthy, the gap could even triple, inevitably accelerating the day the US debt collapses.

Under current US law and policy, federal debt is projected to grow from about 99% of GDP now to 166% by 2054. If the proposed defense spending increases are implemented and sustained, the debt could grow to around 260% of GDP over the next 30 years. Congressional Budget Office research finds that uncontrolled debt growth could cost the US economy trillions of dollars annually by the 2050s. Ultimately, such policies will harm US national security far more than they help.

When a hegemonic power can only resort to "patching holes by creating new ones" to pay for its aggressive militarism, it becomes trapped in a vicious cycle: using overexpansion to mask its inherent weakness, resulting in insolvency until it's barely hanging on by a thread.

From openly coveting the Panama Canal, Greenland, Gaza, and even Canadian territory, to wildly swinging the "tariff club" disrupting global trade order, and now to a military budget exceeding one trillion dollars, America is showing the world what it means to "drink poison to quench thirst"—a mad dash towards hegemonic implosion and collapse.

Commentary originally published in Chinese on http://www.81.cn/pl_208541/jdt_208542/16381850.html

On the afternoon of April 16, 2025, Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, Spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense (MND), answered recent media queries concerning the military.

This briefing covered key military issues, including China-Vietnam ties and responses to US and Japanese actions. Spokesperson Zhang addressed questions on regional security, threat perceptions, and Taiwan:

1. Deepening China-Vietnam Military Ties and Security Cooperation

2. US Annual Threat Assessment: Cyber Threats and LLMs

3. Japan-US Exercise Simulating 'Taiwan Contingency'

4. US Defense Budget Potentially Reaching $1 Trillion

5. Response to Lai Ching-te's Remarks on US Relations and Purchases

Deepening China-Vietnam Military Ties and Security Cooperation

Journalist: President Xi Jinping recently visited Viet Nam, proposing six measures to deepen the China-Viet Nam community with a shared future. He emphasized building more robust security safeguards. How will China promote the military-to-military relationship?

Zhang Xiaogang: This year marks 75 years of China-Viet Nam diplomatic ties. President Xi Jinping, also General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee, visited Viet Nam April 14-15. He and General Secretary To Lam charted the course for state-to-state and military relations.

President Xi noted that at this new historical point, both sides must build on achievements. Key goals include stronger political trust, substantive security cooperation, deeper practical cooperation, and greater public support. Closer multilateral coordination and better difference management are also vital.

China and Viet Nam should advance comprehensive strategic cooperation with high-quality efforts. We must ensure steady progress in building a China-Viet Nam community with a shared future. This contributes to building a community with a shared future for mankind.

In recent years, our militaries enhanced their "camaraderie plus brotherhood" friendship. High-level engagements are frequent; we established a "3+3" strategic dialogue on diplomacy, defense, and public security. We conducted joint counter-terrorism exercises and activities like border defense exchanges and joint patrols.

Military relations achieved high-level, steady development. Building on this, China will work with Viet Nam toward shared goals. Under leaders' guidance, we'll strengthen strategic trust and coordination. We will enhance cooperation in political work, maritime security, joint exercises, and training, elevating military ties.

US Annual Threat Assessment: Cyber Threats and LLMs

Journalist: The US 2025 Annual Threat Assessment claims China is the biggest military and cyber threat. It suggests the PLA might use large language models for deceptive information operations. What is your comment?

Zhang Xiaogang: The US often accuses others of what it does itself. The US is a primary source of cyber attacks against China and a known global cyber threat. From WikiLeaks to Snowden, Stellar Wind, and Telescreen, the US has a poor cyber record.

It relentlessly surveils, steals secrets, and attacks others. Smearing China won't remove the US label as the "empire of hacking." We demand the US stop acting like a thief crying "stop thief."

The US must cease cyber attacks against China and others. It should restore a clean, secure cyberspace with responsible words and actions.

Japan-US Exercise Simulating 'Taiwan Contingency'

Journalist: Japanese media disclosed the Japan-US "Keen Edge 24" exercise featured a "Taiwan contingency" scenario. It simulated fighter jets attacking a PLA landing fleet. What’s your comment?

Zhang Xiaogang: Our consistent position is US-Japan military cooperation shouldn't target third parties or harm regional peace. The Taiwan question is China's internal affair; resolving it is our matter. Hyping a "Taiwan contingency" only fans flames and stirs trouble.

No one should underestimate the Chinese people's will to safeguard sovereignty and territorial integrity. Those using the "Taiwan card" to interfere or make military provocations will pay an unbearable price.

US Defense Budget Potentially Reaching $1 Trillion

Journalist: Reports suggest the US FY2026 defense budget might reach $1 trillion. This funding would enhance lethality and readiness. Your comments?

Zhang Xiaogang: We noted these reports. The huge defense budget again exposes US belligerence and belief in "might makes right." The US government is heavily indebted yet pours wealth exploited from others into weapons.

We hope the US abandons its obsession with hegemony soon. It should recognize that wanton force won't make America great again. It only brings disaster to its people and the world.

Response to Lai Ching-te's Remarks on US Relations and Purchases

Journalist: Lai Ching-te reportedly stated Taiwan won't impose retaliatory tariffs on the US. He asserted "enduring hardship is self-improvement," pledging large US agricultural, industrial, energy, and weapon purchases. Please comment.

Zhang Xiaogang: The Lai Ching-te authorities disregard local interests to curry favor with their "foreign master." This is essentially "offering up Taiwan's resources to win US favor." Such concessions deplete Taiwan's future and harm people's well-being.

The DPP authorities' attempts to solicit US support for "Taiwan independence" and resist reunification by force are a dead end.

On the afternoon of April 9, 2025, Senior Colonel Zhang Xiaogang, Spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense (MND), answered recent media queries concerning the military.

This briefing included announcements on military competitions and seminars, updates on China-India and China-Cambodia relations, and responses to US actions concerning Japan, the Philippines, and Taiwan.

1. Announcement: Second All-Army Military Translation Challenge

2. Announcement: International Security Cooperation Seminar for Military Attachés

3. Announcement: PLA Participation in Pakistan's "Team Spirit-2025" Competition

4. Advancing China-India Military Relations

5. China-Cambodia Ream Naval Base Joint Center Update

6. Response to US Defense Secretary's Remarks in Japan

7. US-Philippines Actions in the South China Sea

8. US Internal Memo Identifying China as Pacing Threat

9. US F-16V Sales to Taiwan

10. G7 Statement on PLA Exercises Around Taiwan

First, I have three announcements.

Announcement 1: Second All-Army Military Translation Challenge

From April to August, the Second All-Army Military Translation Challenge will be held. It takes place at the PLA National University of Defense Technology's Foreign Language Institute. This competition features innovative formats, updated languages, and broader participation. It promotes military language capabilities, supporting foreign military exchanges and world-class army building.

Announcement 2: International Security Cooperation Seminar for Military Attachés

From April 10th to 11th, the MND hosts the Third International Security Cooperation Seminar. It's for foreign military attachés stationed in China, held at the NDU's International College of Defense Studies. Representatives from international organizations will also attend.

Experts will give presentations on enhancing international military cooperation and addressing regional security challenges. A visit to a new socialist countryside model unit is planned. The event aims to deepen understanding of China and its military, enhancing friendship and trust.

Announcement 3: PLA Participation in Pakistan's "Team Spirit-2025" Competition

In early to mid-April, a PLA Army detachment will go to Pakistan. They will participate in the "Team Spirit-2025" international military competition upon the Pakistan Army's invitation. Key events include night reconnaissance, ambushes, counter-ambushes, and armed swimming. This tests capabilities and strengthens exchanges with participating nations' militaries.

Advancing China-India Military Relations

Journalist: President Xi Jinping and the Indian President recently exchanged congratulatory messages. They agreed to promote healthy, stable bilateral relations. How will China advance military ties?

Zhang Xiaogang: This year marks 75 years of China-India diplomatic relations. President Xi and the Indian President exchanged messages, guiding bilateral ties. China and India are ancient civilizations, major developing countries, and key "Global South" members.

Both are in crucial modernization phases. Cooperation benefits both nations and peoples fundamentally. The Chinese military will work with India to implement leaders' consensus. We will deepen communication, enhance strategic trust, and jointly maintain border peace. We aim for healthy military relations, contributing positively to regional and world peace.

China-Cambodia Ream Naval Base Joint Center Update

Journalist: The China-Cambodia Ream Naval Base Joint Support and Training Center is operational. The "Golden Dragon-2025" joint exercise launch occurred there. Please provide more details.

Zhang Xiaogang: The Center's construction resulted from mutual respect and equal consultation. It complies with domestic laws, international law, and practice. It adds new impetus and substance to bilateral military relations.

The Chinese and Cambodian militaries will further cooperate in joint exercises, training, and exchanges. This enhances capabilities to maintain regional peace and stability.

Response to US Defense Secretary's Remarks in Japan

Journalist: The US Defense Secretary, visiting Japan, called Japan "indispensable" in countering Chinese "aggression." He praised Japanese "bravery" at Iwo Jima, sparking US domestic criticism. Comment?

Zhang Xiaogang: History cannot be forgotten; right and wrong must be clear. The international community knows who started wars, pursued expansion, and upholds peace. This year is the 80th anniversary of victory in the Chinese People's War Against Japanese Aggression and World War II.

Some US individuals engage in political stunts, whitewashing Japanese militarism. How does this honor those who died fighting fascism? This caused public anger in the US and invites global opposition and historical ridicule.

We urge relevant countries to stop spreading false narratives. Do not treat the Asia-Pacific as a geopolitical "hunting ground." Do not incite bloc politics or military confrontation, harming regional security.

US-Philippines Actions in the South China Sea

Journalist: The US Defense Secretary visited the Philippines, reaffirming defense treaty commitments against the "China threat." US-Philippines-Japan conducted joint patrols; the US approved F-16 sales to the Philippines. Comment?

Zhang Xiaogang: The US uses bilateral treaties to interfere in the South China Sea. This harms China's sovereignty and maritime rights; attempts to threaten China will fail. The Philippines repeatedly infringes on China's rights.

External countries like the US fuel tensions, disrupting the South China Sea and regional peace. This exposes their role as spoilers and troublemakers. "Relying on external forces" is counterproductive; "pawns" eventually become "abandoned pieces." We advise the Philippines to abandon unrealistic illusions and return to dialogue.

US Internal Memo Identifying China as Pacing Threat

Journalist: US media revealed a secret memo signed by the Defense Secretary. It identifies China as the "only pacing threat." Preventing a mainland takeover of Taiwan and strengthening homeland defense are key priorities. Comment?

Zhang Xiaogang: We noted these reports. US "China-fear paranoia" seems to be worsening. Viewing China as a threat is a serious strategic misjudgment with disastrous consequences. China will achieve reunification; this historical trend is unstoppable by any force.

US F-16V Sales to Taiwan

Journalist: Taiwan reportedly received its first US F-16V fighter; 65 more are due by late 2026. Analysts say this counters China's modernizing air force. Comment?

Zhang Xiaogang: We noted this. It's another instance of the US abandoning commitments and violating the one-China principle. It breaches the three Sino-US joint communiqués, interferes in China's internal affairs, and destabilizes the Taiwan Strait.

US arms sales won't change the cross-strait military balance or stop China's reunification. The DPP authorities waste taxpayer money meant for public welfare on harmful, destructive schemes. Seeking "independence through US support" or "resisting reunification by force" only leads Taiwan towards war and self-destruction.

G7 Statement on PLA Exercises Around Taiwan

Journalist: G7 foreign ministers and the EU representative issued a statement on early April PLA exercises near Taiwan. They called China's "provocative" actions destabilizing, opposing unilateral actions threatening peace. Comment?

Zhang Xiaogang: Relevant countries blatantly violated the one-China principle and interfered in China's internal affairs. We strongly oppose this. The Eastern Theater Command's exercises countered "Taiwan independence" forces' arrogance.

These actions defended national sovereignty and territorial integrity. They firmly safeguarded peace, stability, and the well-being of Taiwan compatriots. The Taiwan question is purely China's internal affair; its resolution brooks no external interference.

The PLA's training and readiness continue. Efforts to counter "independence" and promote reunification persist. We will crush any "Taiwan independence" separatist schemes and external interference attempts.