U.S. and China Vie for Air Superiority in the Pacific
The United States and China are both working hard to create stronger air forces, leading to a race to see who will control the skies over the Pacific Ocean. Both countries are investing in new technology, hoping it will give them an edge.
The U.S. is moving forward with its F-47 fighter jet, a next-generation plane designed to keep America in control of the air. The Air Force awarded Boeing the contract for this project in March, with the first flight expected in 2028.
At the same time, the B-21 Raider, a stealth bomber that will replace the B-2, is being tested. The Air Force plans to buy at least 100 of these bombers, which are designed to be able to fly safely in Chinese airspace.
The U.S. military is also developing Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCAs), which are drones that can fly alongside fighter jets. These drones will allow one pilot to control several aircraft at once, increasing our military’s effectiveness.
While China leads the world in the commercial drone market, the U.S. still has an advantage when it comes to high-end military drones. Experts point to the Air Force’s stealth planes and upcoming “loyal wingman” drones as proof that the U.S. is still ahead in advanced technology.
China’s Efforts to Catch Up
China has been working hard to modernize its air force. They are focused on improving stealth technology, engines, and aircraft carriers, which have been weak spots in their military in the past.
The Chengdu J-20, China’s top stealth fighter, is being upgraded with a new engine that is meant to be as good as U.S. engines. China’s third aircraft carrier, the Fujian, has also been launched, giving them the ability to launch stealth jets from the sea.
China’s military writings show they plan to target airfields early in any conflict. They believe that by striking runways, they can stop the enemy from using their air power. Some analysts worry that Chinese missiles could cripple U.S. bases in Japan and Guam.
Different Plans, Same Goal
The U.S. and China have different strategies for achieving air dominance. The U.S. is focusing on using a smaller number of advanced aircraft that are linked by sensors and artificial intelligence. The goal is to strike first, from far away, and be able to survive in dangerous airspace.
China, on the other hand, is focused on building large numbers of fighters, missiles, and carrier planes to overwhelm U.S. defenses.
Both countries face the challenge of surviving in the other’s range. China’s missiles are pushing U.S. aircraft further away, while American bombers and drones are designed to break through Chinese defenses.
Experts say that being able to survive, not just being good at dogfighting, will be most important in the coming years. They warn that China is preparing to strike air bases, while the U.S. is not doing enough to protect its bases.
Looking to the Future
The Pentagon’s future budget will decide how quickly the U.S. can build its new F-47s, B-21s, and CCAs. These systems will shape American air power for years to come.
China is catching up, but the U.S. still has advantages in stealth technology, combat experience, and the use of autonomous systems. Protecting our aircraft on the ground will be key to being able to fight in the Pacific.
For many years, the U.S. has been the undisputed leader in air power. But in the Pacific, that is no longer guaranteed. The U.S. must invest in our military to maintain dominance and protect our country.
