China Expands Missile Arsenal, Advances Cognitive Warfare

China’s military buildup, coupled with advanced psychological warfare strategies, poses an unprecedented threat to U.S. security. Reports from the Department of Defense and independent analysts outline significant advancements in China’s conventional and non-conventional warfare capabilities.

The People’s Liberation Army Rocket Force has expanded its missile inventory, now holding 400 intercontinental ballistic missiles and over 600 nuclear warheads, with projections to exceed 1,000 by 2030. Hypersonic weapons like the DF-27 can evade missile defenses and strike targets across the Pacific, including Guam and Alaska.

China’s cognitive warfare strategy aims to manipulate information and destabilize adversaries. Techniques include deepfakes to mislead military leaders, AI-driven disinformation campaigns, and social media tools like TikTok to erode trust in U.S. institutions and polarize societies. PLA researchers are also advancing voice synthesis technologies for targeted propaganda efforts.

China’s ambitious timelines for military readiness against Taiwan by 2027 and global dominance by 2049 are viewed with skepticism. Analysts warn that Beijing may already be prepared for conflict, using stated goals to mask its true capabilities.

In response, experts stress the need for the U.S. to rebuild its military strength. Reforms within the Pentagon, including cutting redundant programs and streamlining procurement processes, are essential to redirect resources toward countering China’s growing influence.

President-elect Donald Trump’s administration has pledged to prioritize military readiness, with plans to expand the Navy, modernize the nuclear arsenal, and invest in missile defense systems. These efforts aim to preserve U.S. dominance in the face of China’s aggressive ambitions.

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