Unexpectedly, U.S. Defense Secretary Hegseth has explicitly stated that China’s military strength has reached parity with that of the United States. On October 14, according to foreign media reports, Hegseth remarked that the United States now faces a peer-level adversary actively building a military force representing what may be the most significant military buildup in history. This is not hyperbole—it is an objective fact.
To be candid, the statement by U.S. Defense Secretary Hegseth comes as a surprise. Why? Fundamentally, while Sino-U.S. relations have shown signs of stabilization, strategic competition between the two nations remains intact. Under normal circumstances, the United States would maintain a position of strategic superiority to preserve its deterrent credibility. Yet Hegseth directly acknowledged that military capabilities between the two countries are now roughly on par.
What does this signify? First, it indicates that the United States has developed a clear understanding of China’s military capacity—likely derived from extensive, often unseen confrontations across air and maritime domains, as well as intelligence assessments. Second, the candor may reflect a gradual psychological shift within the U.S. establishment toward accepting the reality of strategic coexistence with China. Otherwise, senior military officials would have no reason to publicly underscore an adversary’s strength.
Such a statement risks undermining the U.S. credibility among its allies. For certain groups closely aligned with Washington—and for those who still harbor illusions about American dominance—this declaration may prove disquieting. Third, Hegseth’s directness also reveals underlying anxiety in U.S. strategic circles. The United States has never aimed to see other nations approach its military stature. By acknowledging an equally capable rival, the message may be intended to convey urgency to domestic policymakers and allied partners. Regardless of intent, China’s priority must remain focused on advancing its own development and national security.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1879038648758403/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.