Unmasking the PLA’s Weaknesses in Beijing’s Quest for Dominance

China’s Military Readiness and Xi’s Purges: Unmasking the PLA’s Weaknesses in Beijing’s Quest for Dominance

The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) is undergoing significant modernization to achieve Xi Jinping’s goal of a "world-class" military by 2049, with a key milestone in 2027 for advanced combat capabilities, particularly for a potential Taiwan invasion.

However, recent purges targeting over 20 senior PLA officers, including three Central Military Commission (CMC) members (Li Shangfu, Miao Hua, and reportedly He Weidong), have raised concerns about the PLA’s readiness. Driven by corruption, factionalism, incompetence, or Xi’s need for control, these purges disrupt command structures, delay weapons programs, and erode morale, undermining the PLA’s ability to execute complex joint operations.

Despite advancements in missiles, naval power, and AI-driven “intelligentization,” issues like lack of combat experience, centralized decision-making, and unreliable equipment (e.g., missiles filled with water) highlight vulnerabilities.

Historically, China has pursued wars (e.g., Korea 1950, Vietnam 1979) despite unpreparedness, suggesting Xi might act on Taiwan if strategic imperatives outweigh readiness concerns.

The ongoing Ukraine conflict, with its lessons on drone warfare and self-sufficient defense industries, informs China’s modernization, while Beijing benefits from a prolonged war that distracts the U.S. and secures discounted Russian energy.

Although purges may delay ambitious operations, Xi’s focus on loyalty and long-term goals ensures the PLA remains a formidable threat, requiring vigilance from Taiwan and its allies.