New Chief of Naval Operations Navigation Plan Rightly Prioritizes “Readiness for the Possibility of War with the People’s Republic of China by 2027”

18 September 2024

New Chief of Naval Operations Navigation Plan Rightly Prioritizes “Readiness for the Possibility of War with the People’s Republic of China by 2027”

Reports—U.S. Government Statements—U.S. government

Today at the Naval War College, the Chief of Naval Operations rightly directed what we must focus on. Admiral Lisa Franchetti unveiled the Navigation Plan for America’s Warfighting Navy (NAVPLAN2024). We have 834 days until 1 January 2027 and each of us has a vital role in executing this plan.

Here in Newport, the China Maritime Studies Institute is dedicated to supporting the North Star of the CNO’s Navigation Plan: “By 2027, the Navy will be more ready for sustained combat as part of a Joint and Combined force, prioritizing the People’s Republic of China as the pacing challenge….”

The CNO rightly prioritizes “readiness for the possibility of war with the People’s Republic of China by 2027….” As she explains, Xi “has told his forces to be ready for war by 2027—we will be more ready. The challenge posed by the PRC to our Navy now goes well beyond just the size of the PLA Navy fleet. … Through operational concepts like multi-domain precision warfare, grey zone and economic campaigns, expansion of dual use infrastructure (e.g., airfields) and dual use forces (e.g., Chinese maritime militia), and a growing nuclear arsenal, the PRC presents a complex multi-domain and multi-axis threat. The PLA Navy, Rocket Force, Aerospace Force, Air Force, and Cyberspace Force are coalescing into an integrated warfighting ecosystem specifically designed to defeat ours, backed by a massive industrial base. The PRC’s defense industrial base is on a wartime footing, including the world’s largest shipbuilding capacity now at the hands of the PLAN. In response, we understand that deterring PRC threats to U.S. Allies, partners, and interests—and winning decisively if called upon—requires us to stay committed to a Navigation Plan that delivers integrated, all-domain sea control as part of a warfighting ecosystem.”

The focus of NAVPLAN2024 on 2027 represents a long-overdue laser-focused U.S. Navy response to China’s 2027 Centennial Military Building Goal (建军一百年奋斗目标). This capabilities development deadline is designed in part to give Xi a full toolbox of military operational options against Taiwan.

NAVPLAN2024’s focus on 2027 also reflects what those who follow China’s military development most closely know all too well. Admiral Aquilino’s final Congressional testimony as USINDOPACOM Commander is a case in point:

“All indications point to the PLA meeting…Xi…’s directive to be ready to invade Taiwan by 2027. Furthermore, the PLA’s actions indicate their ability to meet Xi’s preferred timeline to unify Taiwan with mainland China by force if directed.”

“The PRC continues to advance its comprehensive military modernization program to transform the PLA into an integrated, joint, high-tech, network-centric military force. Modernization has remained aggressive, and China remains committed to delivering the capabilities needed to achieve its objective by 2027.”