The 2025 annual report by the US Department of Defense (Pentagon) extensively discusses China's military maneuvers. In October 2024, India and China agreed to withdraw troops from remaining conflict areas at the LAC, somewhat easing border tensions. However, the Pentagon notes that China's main objective is to prevent India from drawing closer to the US. China is keen to avoid strong strategic ties between India and the United States.
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Source: aajtak
The report clearly states that the trust deficit between India and China persists. The previous border incidents make it difficult to transform their relations fundamentally. Particularly, China considers Arunachal Pradesh a core interest, viewing it like Taiwan and the South China Sea—non-negotiable issues—which directly challenges India's sovereignty.
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The Pentagon has also expressed significant concerns over China's military ties with Pakistan. Since 2020, China has supplied Pakistan with 36 J-10C fighter jets, significantly boosting the Pakistani Air Force's capabilities. Additionally, both nations are jointly producing the JF-17 fighter jets. Pakistan is also acquiring Chinese drones, naval vessels, and other military hardware. In December 2024, they conducted a joint anti-terrorism exercise.
Source: aajtak
The report warns that Pakistan could potentially become a base for Chinese military installations in the future, bringing China alarmingly close to India. In 2024, China's Western Theater Command conducted robust exercises in high-altitude regions, responsible for overseeing issues related to India, indicating preparations for mountain warfare.
This report clearly portrays China's dual policy: on one hand, maintaining normal relations with India to weaken the US-India alliance, and on the other, indirectly pressurizing India by arming Pakistan. Despite the apparent peace at the LAC, India must remain fully vigilant and bolster its defense preparations.
