Strategic Focus on Border, Coastal, and Air Defense: Xi Jinping's Military Priorities

 

China's national defense strategy places a significant emphasis on safeguarding its territorial sovereignty and maritime rights, particularly through robust border, coastal, and air defense mechanisms. In a recent speech, Xi Jinping underscored the importance of mainland defense, signaling a strategic priority that reflects Beijing's broader geopolitical concerns.

Strengthening Traditional Combat Forces

Xi Jinping's emphasis on border, coastal, and air defense aligns with the Chinese Communist Party's resolution. In Chinese military terminology, "traditional combat forces" typically refer to conscript-heavy units, which include border and coastal defense forces and other ground combat units. By prioritizing homeland defense, Xi is likely to elevate the stature of these army elements, enhancing their profile within society.

Implications for Local Governments and Military-Civilian Integration

 A pertinent example of this trend is the construction of over 50 new villages and the expansion of 100 others in remote regions along China's periphery since 2016, likely driven by this policy direction.

A New Front in the Indo-Pacific: The Gulf of Thailand

China's Strategic Canal Project

The geopolitical tensions between China and the United States have intensified in the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait. However, another significant body of water in the Indo-Pacific, the Gulf of Thailand, is emerging as a potential flashpoint. China's ambitious infrastructure projects in the region, particularly the Funan-Techo Canal, could significantly alter the regional balance of power.

The Funan-Techo Canal: A Game-Changer

The Funan-Techo Canal, a $1.7 billion project funded by China, aims to connect Cambodia's capital, Phnom Penh, to the Gulf of Thailand. This canal, if completed, could reduce shipping times and boost Cambodia's economy. The project is touted as a win-win for both Cambodia and China .

China's Strategic Objectives

China's investment in the canal serves several strategic objectives. Firstly, it grants China direct access to the Gulf of Thailand, bypassing the need to navigate through the South China Sea. This could potentially reduce the risk of confrontations with other regional powers. Secondly, the canal could help China address its "Malacca Dilemma," a concern about its dependence on the Strait of Malacca for trade. Finally, the project could give China a strategic advantage over Vietnam, a regional rival.

Implications for Regional Stability

The Funan-Techo Canal project could potentially escalate tensions between China and other regional powers, particularly Vietnam.