Admiral John Aquilino, the commander of the US Indo-Pacific Command, has issued a stark warning, suggesting that China is rapidly bolstering its military and nuclear capabilities, potentially positioning itself for an invasion of Taiwan by 2027.

This assertion, reported by Bloomberg, underscores growing concerns within US defence circles regarding China’s aggressive military modernisation efforts.

According to Admiral Aquilino, there is mounting evidence indicating that the People’s Liberation Army of China (PLA) is diligently following directives from Chinese President Xi Jinping to prepare for a potential invasion of Taiwan by 2027.

Speaking before the US House Armed Services Committee, Aquilino highlighted the PLA’s actions as indicative of its ability to align with Xi’s desired timeline for reunifying Taiwan with mainland China, even through the use of force if deemed necessary.

Despite facing economic challenges, Aquilino noted that Beijing has significantly increased its official defence budget, surpassing 223 billion dollars in recent years, marking a 16% increase.

Moreover, over the past three years, the PLA has expanded its arsenal, acquiring over 400 fighter jets, more than 20 large warships, and doubling its stockpiles of ballistic and cruise missiles since 2020.

Aquilino further expressed concern over Chinese military exercises simulating various operations against Taiwan, including maritime and aerial blockades, emphasising the global implications of these developments.

However, US intelligence assessments suggest that China may not seek outright military conflict over Taiwan, despite its intentions to assert control over the island.

Congressman Mike Rogers, a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee, highlighted the deployment of advanced military systems by the PLA, including hypersonic weapons and fifth-generation fighters, capable of projecting power deep into the Pacific Ocean.

Rogers also underscored China’s formidable naval capabilities, boasting a fleet of 340 ships, which includes a new aircraft carrier and nuclear submarines armed with ballistic missiles.

While China’s defence budget remains smaller than that of the US, President Joe Biden’s recent proposal for an 850 billion-dollar Pentagon budget for the fiscal year 2025 signals Washington’s commitment to maintaining military superiority.