Highlights: The 2023 China Military Power Report
The United States Department of Defense released its 2023 China Military Power Report (cmpr) on October 19. The report, which covers China’s military and security developments, shows growth in strength of arms and international relationships.
Indo-Pacific coercion: The report documents over 180 cases of risky air intercepts by China’s People’s Liberation Army (pla) against American aircraft in the Indo-Pacific from fall 2021 to fall 2023. In the same time frame, the pla committed about 100 risky, coercive operations in the air space of U.S. allies and partners, most notably Taiwan. The pla increased provocative actions against Taiwan throughout 2022. These escalations include:
- A large-scale simulated joint blockade
- Ballistic missile overflights
- Large-scale joint firepower strike operations
- Flights into Taiwan’s self-declared air defense identification zone
Militarization and rejuvenation: Throughout 2022, China diversified, expanded and modernized the pla, namely its cyberspace, counter space, space and nuclear forces. China’s focus on military power is designed to achieve what its leaders call “the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation” by 2049.
Russian relations: The biggest threat to the West brought out by the cmpr is the strengthening Russo-Chinese relationship. Beijing views its ties to Moscow as vital to its rise to greater status.
What this means: The cmpr emphasizes what events have illustrated for years—China will soon rise to superpower status.
These trends align with prophecies in the Holy Bible. Ezekiel 38 talks about a modern military alliance led by “Gog” and a power in the “land of Magog.” Bible scholars agree that “Gog” signifies Russia and “the land of Magog” includes China. These nations will lead a massive alliance of Asian countries.
The cmpr shows we are nearing the fulfillment of these prophecies.
Learn more: Read our free booklet Russia and China in Prophecy.
