(Tribune News Service) — Since 2020, China has undertaken a massive expansion of missile production facilities, strengthening its deterrence capabilities against the United States and consolidating its military role in the region.

An analysis conducted by CNN using satellite images, maps, and official documents revealed that over 60% of the 136 sites linked to missile production or the Chinese army - which also controls the nuclear arsenal - show signs of ongoing or completed expansion.

In total, the newly constructed areas - towers, bunkers, and structures related to arms development - occupy approximately two million square meters. “China is positioning itself as a global superpower. We are in the early stages of a new arms race”, explained William Alberque, arms control expert and former NATO director.

The facilities identified by the American broadcaster include factories, research centers, and military bases: 99 sites related to missile production, 65 of which have been expanded in the last five years, and 22 Rocket Force bases showing new developments.

The expansion continued unabated even after the Russian invasion of Ukraine, an event that - according to analysts - prompted Beijing to accelerate its military programs.

The strengthening of the missile arsenal is part of Xi Jinping’s strategy to transform the China’s army into a “world-class” force. China increased its defense budget by 7.2% in 2024, reaching an official total of approximately 245 billion dollars, although actual expenditures could be much higher.

The new production capabilities also include medium-range missiles like the Df-26, dubbed by experts “the Guam killer” for its ability to strike American bases in the Pacific.

According to analysts cited by CNN, the missiles produced in the new facilities would be crucial in a potential military operation against Taiwan, with the aim of creating an “interdiction bubble” around China’s coasts.

But while Beijing accelerates, Washington struggles to keep pace: the Pentagon faces supply shortages due to “expenditures” in the conflicts in Ukraine and Israel. “I believe a new Cold War is already underway - warned David Santoro, president of the Pacific Forum - The risk is that it could turn into a hot war”.

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