China's Military Modernization: Redefining PLA Center of Gravity

摘要

China's economy is expanding and is expected to be one of the top five in the world in the next 10 years. Due to this growth, China believes it is only natural progression to seek increased global and regional influence on their periphery. To achieve this desired influence, China is modernizing the PLA and planning for expansion of their operating area to a 'green water' navy by early 21st century and a 'blue water' navy by 2050. China's national defense strategy is characterized as an active defense and is primarily designed to counter perceived U.S. hegemonic practices within the Asian-Pacific Theater and a 'unipolar' world. The Chinese are incrementally approaching their modernization to avoid being perceived as a threat until they obtain the capability to be dominant regionally. The paper addresses the need to redefine China's 'centers of Gravity' and presents a conceptual plan for a limited conflict with China. It also states that the U.S. must deliberately plan, budget, and procure to meet the possible challenges of future regional conflict with China.