Washington, May 18 – The United States is ramping up preparations for a possible long-term conflict with China, as concerns grow over Beijing’s military ambitions, particularly regarding Taiwan. Senior U.S. officials have warned that a war with China could directly impact American military bases and even the homeland.
During a recent briefing at Edwards Air Force Base, Brigadier General Doug Wickert cautioned that a conflict with China would not remain overseas. He highlighted California’s Aerospace Valley, a hub for aircraft manufacturing, as a potential early target in the event of hostilities.
U.S. intelligence suggests that Chinese President Xi Jinping has instructed his military to be ready for a Taiwan invasion by 2027, though no final decision has been made. In response, the Pentagon has initiated major defensive upgrades across the Pacific, including the reconstruction of WWII-era airstrips in the Philippines to bolster air operations.
Additionally, Guam is undergoing extensive fortifications, with over $7 billion allocated for military enhancements. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth described Guam as the “tip of the spear” in the region, warning that it could be a prime target for missile strikes in the early stages of a Taiwan conflict.
However, the Pentagon faces growing concerns over munitions shortages. Recent military operations in the Middle East and a decline in domestic missile production have depleted key weapon reserves. Senior military leaders caution that current stockpiles may not be sufficient for a prolonged engagement with China.
As tensions escalate, U.S. commanders continue to emphasize deterrence through strength, though they acknowledge that China’s expanding military capabilities are eroding America’s strategic advantage. Officials now stress the urgent need to increase weapons production and strengthen logistics to prepare for a potential large-scale war in the Indo-Pacific.
