China's Massive $15.3 Billion Military Spend in the Pacific Raises Eyebrows

In 2023, China allocated a staggering $15.3 billion, equivalent to 7% of its defense budget, towards military exercises in the Western Pacific. This expenditure, revealed through internal Taiwanese estimates, underscores Beijing's significant investment in enhancing its military presence around Taiwan and neighboring regions. The move signals China's strategic focus on asserting its influence and readiness in a geopolitically sensitive area, raising concerns among international observers about the implications for regional stability and security.