The US Military’s Reliance on Chinese-Made Combat Systems Revealed
A recent report by Govini, a military software company based in Virginia specializing in AI for the defense acquisition process, has shed light on the significant reliance of the US armed forces on combat systems manufactured in China. The report highlighted the exponential increase in US dependence on China for electronics, which surged by 600% between 2014 and 2022.
According to the report, a striking 41% of the Department of Defense (DoD) weapons systems and infrastructure supply chains rely on Chinese semiconductors. This reliance extends to essential components in sensitive US military systems, making numerous major weapons platforms vulnerable. The list of Chinese parts suppliers revealed in the report includes manufacturers of components for advanced military systems like the B-2 Bomber aircraft, the Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile, the Ohio Class nuclear ballistic missile submarines, and the Patriot missile system.
Furthermore, the report highlighted the weaknesses in the current state of the US military, emphasizing its inadequacy to fight a war similar to the conflict in Ukraine. The report discussed the shortage of weapons in the US inventory, from artillery shells to anti-aircraft missiles, due to an undersized workshop for war and an overall deficiency in military systems and supplies. While the report did not advocate for increased weapons production, it stressed the importance of domestic production of defense systems to deter war and support allies under fire.
The report also raised concerns about the implications of potential conflict with China, given the extent of the US military’s dependence on Chinese-manufactured components. While historical examples like General Motors aiding the Nazi war machine raise questions about supply during wartime, it remains to be seen how China would respond if the US were to use weapons supplied by them against them. The report underscored the need for a balanced approach in ensuring national security while minimizing reliance on potential adversaries for critical military components.
