China Prepares for Taiwan, But the US Navy Has a Steamy Plan Ready for 2027!

The U.S. Navy is making serious preparations for a possible military conflict by 2027, with China as its central focus, according to Adm. Lisa Franchetti. The Navy has outlined an ambitious seven-goal plan aimed at ensuring readiness, as tensions rise over the potential for a conflict involving Taiwan.

Preparing for 2027: A Strategic Focus on China

Adm. Franchetti, the Chief of Naval Operations, recently unveiled this comprehensive plan after a year of evaluating the Navy’s current capabilities and identifying areas for improvement. Her primary concern is ensuring the Navy is prepared for any potential threats from China, particularly in light of growing military tensions over Taiwan.

One of the main priorities is enhancing the maintenance of warships and submarines, reducing delays, and boosting the Navy’s use of drones and unmanned vessels. Recruitment and personnel retention are also central to her strategy. During a speech at the Naval War College in Rhode Island, Franchetti emphasized the importance of “raising our level of readiness for potential conflict with the People’s Republic of China by 2027.”

A Deadline for Conflict: The 2027 Target

The year 2027 has become a key focus for U.S. military officials. According to intelligence, Chinese President Xi Jinping has reportedly directed his forces to be ready to take Taiwan by that time. “It’s what Chairman Xi told his forces, that they should be ready for war by 2027,” Franchetti stated.

While Xi has publicly denied setting such a specific timeline, and U.S. officials have cited conversations with President Biden suggesting Xi’s target might be further out, the U.S. military isn’t taking any chances. Recent actions by China, including heightened aggression toward Taiwan, have only increased concerns. Beijing’s ongoing territorial disputes with U.S. allies in the South China Sea have further fueled fears of a looming conflict.

Addressing Multiple Threats, But Prioritizing China

Although the U.S. faces various global threats, including Russia, Iran, and Hezbollah, Franchetti made it clear that China remains the top priority. “By 2027, the Navy will be more ready for sustained combat,” she assured, explaining that the People’s Republic of China represents the most significant challenge.

The Chinese Embassy in Washington declined to comment on these developments, leaving unanswered questions about Beijing’s response to U.S. military preparations.

Big Goals: The Navy’s 2027 Vision

Adm. Franchetti’s goals for the Navy are ambitious, and achieving them will be no easy task. A major objective is ensuring that 80% of U.S. naval forces are combat-ready at any given time. Additionally, she aims to overhaul critical infrastructure, such as piers and runways, while assessing every fleet’s command center for war preparedness, beginning with the Pacific Fleet.

These are no small feats. Franchetti herself described them as “BHAG” – big, hairy, audacious goals. However, she stressed that pursuing these targets with urgency and purpose would not only deter China but any other adversary. “Moving out with purpose and urgency on these targets will deter the PRC and any other potential adversary and make us even more ready to fight and win decisively should that deterrence fail,” she added.

Learning from Recent Conflicts

One advantage the U.S. Navy holds is its real-time combat experience. Adm. Franchetti highlighted the importance of lessons learned from Ukraine’s fight against Russia in the Black Sea. Despite not having a formal navy, Ukraine has managed to push back against Russian forces using “a combination of missiles, robotic surface vessels, and agile digital capabilities.”

The U.S. Navy has paid close attention to these developments, particularly Ukraine’s successful efforts to hold back the Russian navy and even sink warships. “We have learned a great deal about the future of war at sea,” Franchetti noted, particularly regarding the use of robotic platforms and cost-effective munitions.

Similarly, the Navy has been observing combat situations in Yemen, where Houthi rebels have been using drones and ballistic missiles to target merchant vessels in the Red Sea. Franchetti remarked: “I think probably no one is learning more than the Navy because this is the first time we’ve been in a weapons engagement zone for this sustained period.”

Adm. Lisa Franchetti: A Trailblazer at the Helm

Adm. Franchetti assumed her role as Chief of Naval Operations in November, making history as the first woman to serve on the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Her impressive career includes commanding two carrier strike groups and the U.S. 6th Fleet. With her leadership, the Navy is positioning itself for a future that could involve a major conflict with China, ensuring it is prepared to respond swiftly and decisively if necessary.

As the 2027 deadline looms, the U.S. Navy’s preparations reflect the seriousness of the potential threat, while Adm. Franchetti’s leadership underscores the importance of being ready for any challenge that may come.