China’s Expanding Naval Power and Strategic Ambitions Under Xi Jinping
China, traditionally a land power, is now rapidly expanding its naval capabilities. Despite claiming the South China Sea for centuries, China’s naval presence beyond its coastlines is a recent development. The People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) first circumnavigated the globe in 2002, and since then, China’s naval modernization has been swift and significant.
Global Naval Influence
China is asserting its maritime rights not only in the South China Sea but also in the Arctic and around Taiwan. Recently, a Type 052DL destroyer and Type 055 cruiser visited Vanuatu, showcasing China’s naval diplomacy. Dr. Andrew Erickson from the US Naval War College describes China’s strategic priorities as concentric zones of control, influence, and reach.
Strategic Challenges and Ambitions
China’s Belt and Road Initiative has expanded its influence over land, but maritime challenges remain. Erickson notes that China faces tough opponents and geographical challenges in projecting sea power, especially concerning Taiwan. China’s maritime claims are extensive, and it has the world’s largest sea forces.
Military Expansion and Tensions
Under Xi Jinping, China has pursued a “far seas protection” strategy, expanding its naval presence globally. China’s military exercises around Taiwan, such as the Joint Sword-2024B drills, highlight its strategic focus on the island. A study by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) suggests that a blockade of Taiwan could be a risky strategy for China.
Arctic Ambitions
China’s interest in the Arctic is growing, with increased hydrographic activities in the region. Chinese vessels have conducted surveys in areas where the US claims jurisdiction, challenging American maritime claims. This expansion reflects China’s broader strategic ambitions and potential for future confrontations.
Doubts Revealed
Xi Jinping -: Xi Jinping is the current leader of China. He is like the head of the country, similar to how India has a Prime Minister.
Naval Power -: Naval power refers to the strength and capability of a country’s navy. A navy is a part of the military that operates at sea, using ships and submarines.
South China Sea -: The South China Sea is a large sea area in Asia, near countries like China, Vietnam, and the Philippines. It is important because many ships pass through it, and it has valuable resources like fish and oil.
Arctic -: The Arctic is the area around the North Pole, covered with ice and very cold. It is important because it has natural resources and new shipping routes as the ice melts.
Taiwan -: Taiwan is an island near China. It has its own government, but China considers it a part of its territory.
Far Seas Protection -: Far seas protection is a strategy where a country aims to protect its interests and citizens far away from its own shores, using its navy.
Naval Diplomacy -: Naval diplomacy involves using a country’s navy to influence other countries and show strength without fighting. It can include visits to other countries’ ports and joint exercises.
Maritime Claims -: Maritime claims are when a country says it has rights over certain parts of the sea. These claims can be about fishing, oil, or shipping routes.
Naval Modernization -: Naval modernization means updating and improving a country’s navy with new ships, technology, and training to make it more powerful.