The U.S. must act decisively in the next two years to deter China’s potential invasion of Taiwan, according to Digi24.
Preparing for 2027
Xi Jinping has directed the People’s Liberation Army to prepare for such an operation by 2027.
Whether China proceeds may depend on the next U.S. Secretary of Defense, who faces numerous challenges in restoring military readiness.
If confirmed, Pete Hegseth, a veteran and Fox News host, will inherit significant hurdles.
These include deteriorating deterrence in Europe and the Middle East, strained resources, recruiting difficulties, and a weakened power balance in the Indo-Pacific.
Run Out of Munitions in a Week.
The primary task will be revitalizing the U.S. Navy. America needs a stronger naval industry to counter China’s expanding capabilities.
Current Pentagon shipbuilding processes are inefficient and lack coordination between tactical requirements and technical design. This disconnect increases costs and delays.
To address these issues, the Pentagon should adopt the pre-1960s Navy model, where production had unified oversight.
Establishing a dedicated office for accelerating combat technology — similar to the Air Force's Rapid Capabilities Office — would help streamline the deployment of surface ships, drones, and submarines.
Rebuilding the U.S. munitions arsenal is another critical task. The West faces depleted stockpiles of key weapons, such as air defense missiles.
In a conflict with China, the U.S. could run out of munitions within a week.
The Secretary of Defense must accelerate the production of advanced missiles, including anti-ship and air-to-air systems, equipped with technology to enhance range and power.
To cut costs, fixed-price contracts should become the norm. Contractors should be required to use privately funded R&D, not taxpayer dollars.
Reducing unnecessary bureaucratic personnel and selling off unused assets, such as golf courses, could also generate savings.
Assuming China adheres to its timeline, the U.S. has two years to prepare. Success will require immediate reforms, clear plans, and bold action to rebuild confidence in the Pentagon’s leadership and capabilities.
