There is a new monograph from Rand analysts say that China has “keenly observed” American military transformation efforts over the past few years and sees them as “accelerating.” The report highlights options that the Rand analysts believe Beijing is pursuing “in earnest” in whole or in part to respond to the Pentagon transformation plans. The options are: Conventional military modernization focusing on weapon platforms; information operations and sabotage; a missile-based force that would present a short-range threat to Taiwan and improve offensive capabilities against US bases; and net-centric warfare modernization. “The major operational challenge for China … is defeating US air power,” the report states, adding that massed sensors and weapons may be one way the Chinese will attempt to solve the problem.
F-35As from the Vermont Air National Guard have deployed to Puerto Rico in recent days, continuing a major buildup of U.S. Air Force assets in Latin America aimed at combating drug trafficking and pressuring the regime of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro.
