In a move that has caused ripples across the international community, China has announced an increase in its defence expenditure to 7.2%. The move comes at a time of increased geopolitical tensions and uncertainty, with China seeking to assert itself as a global military and economic superpower.
The decision to increase defence spending was announced at the National People’s Congress, China’s top legislative body. The Chinese government has stated that the increased spending will be used to modernise and upgrade its military equipment, improve its logistics and support capabilities, and enhance its overall defence capabilities.
As per previous reports, China spent more than 193.3 Billion USD on its defence every year, being the 2nd largest spender on defence in the entire world. Compared to India, China spends around 3 times that of what India spends on its defence. And given the fact that the biggest expenditure of Indian Defence budget is its pension and salaries to its officers, India lags behind a lot compared to China on defence expenditure, and in turn, defence arsenal.
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Global Rise of China
The increase in defence spending comes as China has risen to become a major global military power. Over the past few decades, China has invested heavily in its military, developing new technologies and modernising its armed forces. Today, China is one of the few countries in the world with the ability to project military power beyond its borders.
One of the key drivers of China’s military modernization has been its growing rivalry with the United States. The two countries have been engaged in a strategic competition for decades, with both sides seeking to gain the upper hand in the Asia-Pacific region. China’s military modernization has been driven in part by its desire to counter the United States’ military capabilities in the region. China’s increased defence spending is likely to be viewed with concern by many of its neighbours in the region, as well as by the United States and other global powers. China’s growing military power and assertiveness have raised concerns about its intentions and its willingness to use force to achieve its goals.
Despite these concerns, China has made significant progress in its military modernization efforts. It has developed new technologies, including advanced stealth fighters and anti-ship missiles, and has invested heavily in its naval and air forces. China has also developed a network of military bases and facilities in the South China Sea, allowing it to project military power throughout the region.
Controversies
China’s military modernization has not been without controversy, however. The country’s growing assertiveness in the region, particularly in the South China Sea, has led to tensions with its neighbours and with the United States. China’s claims to much of the South China Sea have been disputed by other countries in the region, including Vietnam and the Philippines, leading to tensions and occasional confrontations.
China’s increased defence spending is likely to further fuel concerns about its intentions and its willingness to use force to achieve its goals. It is likely to be viewed as a signal of China’s growing military power and its desire to assert itself as a major global player.
Conclusion
Despite these concerns, China’s rise as a military superpower is unlikely to slow down anytime soon. With its growing economic and military power, China is likely to continue to invest heavily in its military, developing new technologies and expanding its capabilities. As a result, China’s role as a major global military player is likely to become increasingly important in the years ahead.
