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China's growing military might: top 4 concerns for the Pentagon

The US Department of Defense is carefully monitoring the growth of China’s military. These four items are currently at the top of their list.

4. Development of sophisticated ships, planes, and drones

Vincent Thian/AP/File
A truck loaded with the Chinese made drone, the ASN-207, takes part in a military parade marking China's 60th anniversary held near Tiananmen Square in Beijing, Oct. 2009.

  • By Anna Mulrine Staff writer

The Chinese military is working quickly to improve its array of increasingly sophisticated fighter jets and attack helicopters.

Indeed, China is developing fourth- and fifth-generation aircraft that incorporate stealth technology, some of which, the report says, use technology captured by Chinese spies.

China has also launched its first aircraft carrier, which senior US military officials say they are watching carefully and which is “the most significant development in the [Chinese] Navy over the past year,” according to the report.

“The formation of carrier battle groups will enable the PLA Navy to conduct comprehensive operations and enhance its long-range operational capabilities,” it says.

The PLA is also “investing heavily in a robust program for undersea warfare,” developing nuclear-powered attack submarines, Helvey said.

Like the US, China is also interested in expanding its fleet of drones – as well as selling its technology. “We have seen some reports of China marketing unmanned air systems in air shows around the world,” Helvey added, “so that’s something we’ll have to continue monitoring very carefully.”

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Mark Sappenfield
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