The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) continues to prepare for war in a world that already has too many ongoing conflicts. Experts believe that for China to invade Taiwan, it has to be before 2030. This is to avoid major international repercussions and to keep the country on track with its 2041 goals. Whether or not China invades Taiwan remains to be seen but the overwhelming signs are pointing to war. Suggested read: Lockheed Martin Syracuse Awarded $276 Million Contract

Will China Invade Taiwan?

The belief within the international community is that China will invade Taiwan at some point between now and 2030. A few different factors are highlighting why this window of opportunity is available for the Asian superpower, as the nation works on its global 2049 initiative:

• The Chinese government set two centenary goals for 2021 and 2049, aiming to achieve a moderately prosperous society and build a modern socialist country, respectively.
• President Xi Jinping's unprecedented third term leading the Chinese Communist Party was announced, during which he emphasized achieving complete reunification, with a focus on China invading Taiwan.
• President Xi's leadership and strategic moves throughout the Pacific and abroad are positioning China to become an even stronger economic and militaristic superpower on a global scale.
• In the past and present, questionable human rights violations, including genocide against the Uyghurs and other minorities, have led to relatively little international backlash.

China is also developing important technologies that continue to improve its capabilities through the air and sea. Necessary capabilities for China to invade Taiwan. One notable example of an advantage over the U.S. is the nation’s hypersonic weapons program. Technology is a huge factor as to why China is stressing the issue in the first place. China's invading Taiwan would boost the nation’s own capabilities while also hindering the United States. Taiwan is an important ally of the United States and heavily relies on the region’s semiconductor production for a wide array of technology ranging from everyday devices to national defense. China's invading Taiwan would provide the country with a much-needed advantage in controlling technology for the nation and its allies.

Preparing for the Pacific

The United States and its allies are increasingly concerned about the day in which China invades Taiwan. In response, the U.S. military has been preparing for potential warfare in the Indo-Pacific region. There are various preparations underway, including a focus on investment and upgrades for the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force. Furthermore, training in the region is becoming more and more popular as the focus shifts from the Middle East. Wargames, including those held with regional allies, such as Australia, are helping prepare troops from multiple nations for potential conflict. This provides both America and its allies a way to not only train and collaborate but also to move supplies that would be of value in the event China invades Taiwan. Furthermore, the U.S. is focusing on enhancing its logistics network to ensure readiness in critical areas. Not only does this effort involve stockpiling equipment in strategic locations, but it also helps enhance the mobility and distribution of American forces so that they aren't too concentrated. What happens if China invades Taiwan can eventually spiral into a global conflict affecting billions of lives. Not only does the plan for China to invade Taiwan put billions in immediate danger from warfare, but the disruptions to our lives would be widespread. This would impact the securing of supplies, food, and resources for national security elsewhere. Related read: The Bloody Hundredth Helps Bring the Masters of Air True Story to Life

When Will China Invade Taiwan?

Realistically, the U.S. believes an invasion is imminent as China is on track to begin its operation in 2027. A theme that continues to echo within the economic community. China is significantly bolstering its military and nuclear capabilities, surpassing levels not witnessed since World War II. Despite economic challenges, the nation has escalated its official defense budget by 16% in recent years, now exceeding $223 billion, and even increased its defense budget in 2024 by 7.2%. The PLA has expanded its arsenal with over 400 fighter aircraft, and more than 20 major warships. It has doubled its inventory of ballistic and cruise missiles since 2020. Additionally, the PLA has conducted rehearsals for operations against Taiwan, including simulations of maritime and air blockades. Chinese officials assert Taiwan as an internal affair and accuse Washington of sowing division in the Pacific region. The best-case scenario for everyone is likely to avoid a world where China invade Taiwan becomes a reality. But staying prepared for the worst-case scenario is why our nation remains vigilant even if concerned about the prospects of peace in the region over the next few years. Read next: Celebrate Military Children on April 15 for Purple Up! Day