China's Military

Historically a land power, China has increasingly come to rely on resources and markets accessible only via maritime routes. To defend these sea-lanes, Beijing is attempting to expand its power-projection capabilities, both for nationalistic and national security purposes.

Key Analysis

Successful Chinese ASAT intercept - 800 px version

China's Offensive Space Capability

January 19, 2007 0040 GMT

A Jan. 17, 2007 report on the Aviation Week & Space Technology Web site says U.S. intelligence agencies believe China destroyed its aging Feng Yun 1C polar orbit weather satellite in a successful anti-satellite weapons test Jan. 11. National Security Council spokesman Gordon Johndroe expressed concern over the test Jan. 18, confirming China’s new military capability. [more]

China, Ecuador: Beijing's Latin American Opportunity

November 27, 2007 1951 GMT

During Ecuadorian President Rafael Correa's recent trip to Beijing on Nov. 21, he offered China the use of the Manta air base. [more]

The Future of Missile Defense in East Asia

November 2, 2007 1445 GMT

Despite all the controversy in Central Europe, developments in ballistic missile defense in East Asia have more potential to meaningfully alter strategic dynamics. [more]