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US military still has an edge, but China is catching up with hi-tech weapons
- Analysts say PLA is narrowing gap with drones and hypersonic missiles, but Washington’s growing alliances could help it maintain advantage
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This is the third article in a series about China’s military development, from weapons and aircraft to its role in the global supply chain and how it compares with the United States.
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While China and the United States work to restore defence communication channels, the growing military might of the two powers has intensified tensions in the Asia-Pacific, most notably in the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea.
Analysts say that while the US still has an edge over China in military strength, the gap is shrinking, and in future this balance is likely to be determined by advanced technology and Washington’s cooperation with its Indo-Pacific allies.
Chinese Defence Minister Dong Jun met his US counterpart Lloyd Austin two weeks ago on the sidelines of the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore – the first meeting between the two countries’ defence chiefs in two years.
They each maintained their firm stances on Taiwan, with Austin expressing concern about recent “provocative” activity by the People’s Liberation Army around the self-ruled island.
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Beijing conducted a two-day joint military exercise blockading Taiwan after the inauguration of the island’s new leader William Lai Ching-te in late May.
Washington expressed “deep concerns” and repeatedly warned about the PLA’s regional military build-up as Beijing stepped up drills near Taiwan.
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