US Deputy Defence Secy Kathleen Hicks outlines four lessons for competition with China
US Deputy Defence Secretary Kathleen Hicks on Strategic Competition with China
In a recent address at the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies in Washington, Deputy Defence Secretary Kathleen Hicks outlined four key lessons for the US in its strategic competition with China. Her speech, titled "Outpacing the PRC: Lessons Learned for Strategic Competition," emphasized the importance of focusing on priorities, effective execution, leveraging competitive advantages, and careful communication.
Focus on Priorities
Hicks highlighted that the challenge posed by China is not new, with the US tracking China's military ambitions for over 25 years. She stressed the need for senior decision-makers to align strategies and drive necessary changes to maintain a competitive edge.
Execution and Delivery
Hicks provided examples of the US military's advancements, noting the importance of modernizing forces to outpace China. She warned of China's capabilities in intellectual property theft and stressed the need for careful communication to protect long-term investments.
Leveraging Competitive Advantages
Hicks pointed to the US's global alliances as a significant strength, with international partners contributing to common defense efforts. She noted that these alliances serve as a reminder to China of the global desire for stability and prosperity.
Communication and Deterrence
Hicks advised caution in actions and words to avoid provoking China unnecessarily. She emphasized the importance of maintaining deterrence and preventing conflict, while being prepared for potential challenges.
Doubts Revealed
Deputy Defence Secretary
The Deputy Defence Secretary is a high-ranking official in the US government who helps manage the country's defense and military matters. They assist the Defence Secretary in making important decisions about national security.
Strategic Competition
Strategic competition refers to the rivalry between countries to gain an advantage in areas like military power, technology, and influence. In this context, it means the US and China are trying to be stronger and more influential than each other.
Modernizing military forces
Modernizing military forces means updating and improving the military's equipment, technology, and strategies to make them more effective and ready for future challenges.
Global alliances
Global alliances are partnerships between countries that work together for mutual benefit, like defense and security. These alliances help countries support each other in times of need.
Deterrence
Deterrence is a strategy to prevent conflict by showing strength and readiness. It means being prepared to defend against threats, so others are discouraged from attacking or causing trouble.
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