China aiming for air control over Western Pacific, surveillance as far as Izu chain: report

Izu islands chain
In a report on its air strategy, the Chinese People’s Liberation Army plans to broaden its air surveillance and attack capabilities to the Western Pacific, including the vicinity of Japan, to ensure its command of the air, it was learned Sunday.

The report seen by Kyodo News emphasizes the need to develop and enhance nine types of “strategic equipment,” such as a new type of strategic bomber and a Terminal High-Altitude Area Defense ground-based interceptor system with an eye specifically toward the United States, which is strengthening its so-called pivot to Asia.

While the expansion by China’s navy, such as its building of a second aircraft carrier, is attracting attention, the report by the Air Force Command Academy shows that country’s air force has also started developing a similar expansion strategy. As a result, conflict over the sea with the United States is likely to deepen further.

Read more