This Move by China Could Leave US Airpower Helpless – Experts Are Sounding the Alarm!

A recent study paints a troubling picture of the balance of airpower between the United States and China in the Indo-Pacific. Researchers argue that China could cripple U.S. and allied air capabilities with far less effort than the reverse, thanks to its rapid military advancements and the lack of corresponding U.S. defenses. The Hudson Institute’s analysis highlights a pressing issue: the disparity in airfield readiness and resilience.

China has focused heavily on fortifying its military infrastructure, significantly enhancing its airfields. Over the past decade, it has more than doubled the number of hardened aircraft shelters and expanded its taxiways and ramps, providing robust defenses for its aircraft. “China has made major investments to defend, expand, and fortify its airfields,” the report states, giving its military the upper hand in a potential conflict.

In contrast, U.S. efforts to bolster airbase resilience have been minimal. The report notes that the combined airfield capacity of the U.S. and its regional allies is roughly one-third that of China. Excluding contributions from key allies like South Korea and the Philippines, this figure plummets to just 15%. Such a shortfall leaves U.S. installations vulnerable to attack.

A Growing Threat

The report underscores the risks of this imbalance. China’s military strategy has increasingly emphasized the importance of preemptive strikes. According to the authors, Beijing’s ability to “nullify adversary airpower on the ramp” with fewer strikes incentivizes a first-move advantage. They warn that such an asymmetry could push China to strike first if it perceives an opportunity, potentially sparking conflict over Taiwan or other regional disputes.

“Strategically, this destabilizing asymmetry risks incentivizing the PRC to exercise a first-mover advantage,” the report explains, adding that surprise attacks are a core component of Chinese military doctrine. A sudden strike targeting U.S. airfields could grant China dominance in air operations, with devastating consequences for the U.S. and its allies.

A Troubling Parallel

The findings also align with broader Department of Defense concerns about China’s growing missile arsenal. The Pentagon’s annual report has documented an alarming increase in the number and variety of missiles in China’s inventory. These weapons are specifically designed to target U.S. military assets, including airfields and aircraft carriers. Satellite images have even revealed mock-ups of American targets, hinting at Beijing’s preparation for conflict.

This scenario is a stark contrast to previous U.S. military operations, particularly in the Middle East, where forward airfields were relatively secure. A conflict in the Pacific would be a different story altogether. The risks to U.S. airbases in this region are unparalleled, making them prime targets for attack.

The Path Forward

The report’s authors argue that the U.S. must urgently shift its priorities. While significant attention has been given to developing modern aircraft, less focus has been placed on protecting them on the ground. “The U.S. military has devoted relatively little attention to countering these threats compared to its focus on developing modern aircraft,” they write. This oversight could prove costly, as airfields remain vulnerable regardless of how advanced the planes are.

The solution lies in fortifying airfields and diversifying operations. Recommendations include deploying active defenses, building resilient infrastructure, and developing aircraft and unmanned systems capable of operating from shorter or damaged runways. Such measures align with the Air Force’s Agile Combat Employment (ACE) strategies but require accelerated action and sustained funding.

“Executing an effective campaign to enhance the resilience of U.S. airfield operations will require informed decisions to prioritize projects — and sustained funding,” the report concludes. Without these investments, the U.S. risks inviting aggression from China and losing a potential war.

A Wake-Up Call

This report serves as a sobering reminder of the challenges ahead. If the U.S. hopes to maintain a balance of power in the Pacific, it must act swiftly. As the authors point out, ignoring these vulnerabilities leaves the door open for China to seize the upper hand, with consequences that could reverberate far beyond the region.