Development of the Chinese A2/AD System in the Context of US–China Relations

Abstract

Abstract: In recent years, the growing arms race between the United States and China has begun to affect almost all areas of the offensive and defensive military potential of the two countries. One of its key directions is the development of the Chinese anti-access/area denial (A2/AD) system, aimed at blocking enemy’s military actions, information tools, and capabilities in various zones of the theater of operations, as well as the US response to counter this strategy. The Chinese A2/AD concept and its correlation with the doctrine of development of the Chinese Armed Forces are analyzed. Additionally, based on systematic analysis and analysis of sources and statistical data, the dynamics of strengthening the main elements of China’s A2/AD system over the past decade is discussed, including high-precision missiles, ground and air defense systems, fourth-generation tactical aircraft, electronic warfare, antisatellite weapons, and cyberwarfare. Several conclusions are made as to the effect of these processes on the US doctrines and principles of deploying forces in the Asia–Pacific region.