China’s military “is likely training for strikes” against US and allied targets in the Pacific, a BBC relays a Pentagon report.
The annual report to Congress says China is increasing its ability to send bomber planes further afield.
The report highlights its increasing military capability, including defence spending estimated at $190bn (£150bn) – a third that of the US.
The warning about air strikes is one part of a comprehensive assessment of China’s military and economic ambitions.
“Over the last three years, the PLA [People’s Liberation Army] has rapidly expanded its overwater bomber operating areas, gaining experience in critical maritime regions and likely training for strikes against US and allied targets,” the report says.
It goes on to say it is not clear what China is trying to prove by such flights.
The PLA may demonstrate the “capability to strike US and allied forces and military bases in the western Pacific Ocean, including Guam,” the report adds.
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