A Study of the Development of PLAN Strategy（1949-2011）with A.T. Mahan’s Sea Power Theory as an Analysis
Date Issued
2011
Date
2011
Author(s)
CHEN, KUO-CHING
Abstract
The evolution of human maritime concepts is from the initial living by sea and near shore sailing to the subsequent viewing oceans as important transportation course, then as important spaces for human’s existence and development. Oceans as treasure boxes become the stage for all competing powers. U.S. Navy flag officer Alfred Thayer Mahan published The Influence of Sea Power upon History, 1660-1783 in 1890. Its content refers to the sea power as an important part in the development of human history. This classic publication has influenced and given birth to the later navy strategies. Mahan’s sea power theory contains “Control of the Sea” and “Uses of the Sea,” the former is the military factors of the sea power. the latter is the economic factors of the sea power.
In the past decade, the development of PRC’s navy power has grown as fast as its economical growth. Naturally, such rapid growth attracts the attention of western countries. PRC’s attempt to build a far sea fleet is especially highly concerned by international community. In its 2004 national defense White Paper, PRC stated that the navy’s duty is to “defend and secure its ocean territory and authority, and its rights and profits.” It emphasized the importance of coastal operations, the abilities to prepare timely for combat, enhancing integrated combat abilities to exercise nuclear strike back. According to PRC’s own plan, it hopes to achieve the previous goals in 2050.
PRC’s navy strategy has switched from the passive to aggressive and has gravely impacted to Taiwan and Asia-Pacific region. Since Taiwan is in the center of the Asia-Pacific rim, and controls PRC’s way into Pacific Ocean, the future development of PRC’s navy strategy would cause a great influence on Taiwan’s security. Moreover, the international environment of Asia-Pacific region is becoming more complicated since America, Japan and China have interests conflict in this region. The development of multilateral relations and the in-depth multilevel military deployment have great impact on the security of Taiwan Strait. Thus, if we can understand the whole picture of PRC’s navy strategy as early as possible, it would help us securing our sea rights, protecting our ocean traffics, and ensuring our future development and safety.
The study is aimed at, from the facets of politics, economics and military, examining and analyzing the changing factors and developing trends of PLAN strategies in different periods form (1949-2011). Besides, to reach an objective assessment and to explore what impacts will be on ROC’s national security is also another purpose. The implications of PLAN’s strategies and trends assessed show that to pursue its national interests and emerging status, China is prompting PLAN to steadily transform from a local navy to a global blue water navy, with a stronger ambition to emerge as a great power with global influence.
Subjects
Sea Power
Strategy
Naval Strategy
SDGs
Type
thesis
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