The Department of Defense’s (DoD) annual report on Military and Security Developments Involving the People’s Republic of China (PRC) outlines the challenges arising from China’s growing global presence and military capabilities. The 2022 National Security Strategy identified the PRC as as the “pacing challenge” for the Department of Defense, as it has the capability to reshape the international order.

The PRC’s long-established national strategy is centered around the “great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation,” a goal they expect to achieve by 2049. This goal involves modernizing the PLA (People’s Liberation Army), and to secure their vision of a “community of common destiny.” This modernization supports the PRC’s goal of shaping global power to match its interests and priorities.

The 2024 report shows how the PRC’s political, economic, and military strategies are connected. Understanding these key factors helps policymakers and defense experts address the challenges of China’s efforts to change the global order. Additionally, the report examines the PRC’s future plans for military modernization which is crucial for creating effective strategies to respond to China’s growing influence worldwide.

For more information, check out documents in the HSDL related to China’s Strategy. Previous annual reports on this topic can be found here.