The scope of China’s military advancements in recent decades was summarized well in the Pentagon’s new 2009 Report to Congress:On March 4, 2008, Beijing announced a 17.6 percent increase in its military budget to approximately $60 billion. China’s military budget doubled between 1989 and 1994, and almost doubled again between 1994 and 1999. The 2005 military budget was almost ten times the 1989 military budget. If these trends continue, China’s military budget for 2009 will nearly double the 2005 figure.
Our military budget will remain flat and declining.
For the U.S. to continue to protect its interest throughout the blue waters of the Pacific and Indian Oceans—maintaining influence, protecting trade routes, and reassuring allies—the nation will require a Navy capable of generating sustained access above, on, and below the seas.
This Administration has shown no desire to improve our Navy's capabilities.
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