How does China aim to strengthen its armed forces?

Question

Accepted Answer

China Seeks to Enhance Military Capabilities Through Technology Acquisition and Espionage

China aims to strengthen its armed forces by acquiring advanced Western knowledge and technical capabilities, primarily through a combination of legal and clandestine methods. This strategic objective is driven by a desire to achieve military parity with other global powers and reduce reliance on foreign technology. The efforts involve not only intelligence agencies but also academic institutions and a broad spectrum of acquisition strategies.
Intelligence Agencies Lead Covert Technology Collection

Chinese intelligence agencies are actively engaged in espionage to obtain critical technologies and operational expertise from Western nations, including the Netherlands. Dutch intelligence agencies have publicly attributed cyber espionage activities to China, with state-backed actors gaining access to sensitive military networks. This covert collection targets knowledge on modern weapon systems and advanced industrial processes, aiming to bridge technological gaps in China's own military development.
Diverse Methods Employed for Technology Acquisition

Beyond direct espionage, China employs a multifaceted approach to acquire technology. This includes leveraging company insiders, pursuing strategic acquisitions, and circumventing export restrictions, as evidenced by the Netherlands' own export limitations on ASML's deep ultraviolet (DUV) equipment. Furthermore, reverse engineering of technologies for which licenses are not required is also a significant component of their strategy, enabling them to replicate and adapt existing advancements.
Academic Institutions as Intelligence Gathering Hubs

Chinese universities play an integral role in the broader intelligence-gathering ecosystem. Scientists employed by Western companies often simultaneously work for China's security services and state-owned enterprises, creating a conduit for transferring knowledge and technical information. This integration of academic and intelligence efforts amplifies China's capacity to collect and exploit foreign technological advancements for military modernization.
Military Modernisation Driven by Technological Parity

The overarching goal of China's technology acquisition efforts is to build a military capable of matching any other global force. This requires access to advanced technologies that China does not yet fully possess domestically. By investing heavily in the collection of Western knowledge and technical capabilities, China seeks to achieve technological independence and enhance its military's overall strength and operational effectiveness.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

How does China aim to strengthen its armed forces?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends