However, weaknesses in its organizational structure including corruption among its ranksand in its combat capabilities mean it faces serious challenges.
“These shortcomings could limit its ability to successfully conduct the information-centric, integrated joint operations Chinese military strategists see as required to fight and win future wars,” the report said.
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But the PLA is well aware of its shortcomings, the report said, with military publications and Chinese sources suggesting that “there is still a large gap between China and developed countries’ militaries, especially the United States.”
The report concludes that U.S. military planners need to understand China’s incomplete military transformation so they can ensure the U.S. and its allies can deter China from using force or the threat of force to resolve disputes with its neighbors.
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