China is ramping up its defense budget with a 7.2% increase, bringing the 2025 defense expenditure to $249 billion. 🛡️
Wu Qian, spokesperson for the People's Liberation Army (PLA) and the People's Armed Police Force, announced these figures during the annual national legislative session. The additional funds will focus on developing new-domain forces with cutting-edge combat capabilities, enhancing systems for reconnaissance, early warning, joint strikes, battlefield support, and integrated logistics.
Moreover, the budget will support improved military training under combat conditions and further national defense and military reforms. Despite the significant increase, Wu emphasized that China's defense spending remains relatively modest compared to major powers like the United States when measured against GDP, per capita, and expenditure per service member.
China faces a complex security environment and ongoing challenges in safeguarding its national sovereignty and territorial integrity. By maintaining restrained defense spending, the Chinese military aims to provide public security goods and contribute to building a community with a shared future for humanity. 🌏
Reference(s):
China maintains steady, reasonable defense spending growth: Wu Qian
cgtn.com
