Edwards AFB Commander: China Military At Peak Strength
The Chinese military, known as the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), has achieved a scale and sophistication never seen before. Brig. Gen. Doug Wickert, commander of the 412th Test Wing at Edwards Air Force Base (AFB), highlighted these developments during a recent Back-in-the-Saddle Day briefing. He warned that by 2027, the PLA would outnumber U.S. forces in the Pacific region, including a staggering 12-to-1 advantage in modern fighter jets and 3-to-1 in maritime patrol planes.
Edwards AFB
Edwards AFB, home to the 412th Test Wing, plays a pivotal role in maintaining U.S. military readiness. The Wing conducts cutting-edge testing of aircraft, weapons, and software systems, ensuring the Air Force stays ahead. With over 7,400 missions annually and a fleet of 90 aircraft, the unit is at the forefront of innovation.
General Wickert underscored the PLA’s advances in cyber warfare. Years of relentless cyberattacks have compromised critical U.S. infrastructure, including power grids and water systems. The general revealed that sensitive communications of top U.S. officials have been under surveillance, creating a precarious security environment.
Advanced PLA Capabilities and Strategic Preparations
China’s military modernization is advancing at an “unprecedented” pace. Recent developments include the unveiling of next-generation aircraft and naval exercises three times larger than the U.S.-led RIMPAC exercises. These activities, combined with mock-ups of U.S. and Taiwanese military assets in the Gobi Desert, reveal strategic planning for potential conflicts.
The B-21 Raider
Amid this imbalance, the US is relying on innovation to counter Chinese advances. The B-21 Raider, a sixth-generation bomber currently under testing at Edwards AFB, is central to this strategy. With advanced capabilities, it aims to deter aggression by showcasing unmatched technological prowess.
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Edwards AFB’s Mission
General Wickert emphasized the critical nature of Edwards AFB’s work in shaping U.S. military strategy. He directly addressed the Chinese leadership, asserting that the base’s efforts are forcing a reevaluation of aggressive strategies. The commitment to accelerating tests and delivering integrated capabilities underscores the U.S. resolve to maintain global stability.
As the PLA’s military power grows, the role of innovation, readiness, and strategic planning at Edwards AFB becomes increasingly vital. General Wickert’s warning is a call to action, ensuring the U.S. remains prepared to face emerging threats and safeguard its interests.
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