Russia is helping China to prepare for potential invasion of Taiwan, think tank says

LONDON — According to a London think tank’s analysis of leaked Russian documents, Russia is selling military equipment and technology to China that could potentially assist Beijing in preparing for an airborne invasion of Taiwan. The Royal United Services Institute in London obtained approximately 800 pages of documents, including contracts and lists of equipment to be provided by Moscow to Beijing, from the Black Moon hacktivist group.

The authors of the analysis believe the documents are authentic, although some parts may have been altered. The documents reveal references to meetings between Chinese and Russian delegations, payment timelines, and delivery schedules for high-altitude parachute systems and amphibious assault vehicles.

While the analysis suggests that the equipment could aid in a potential invasion of Taiwan, China has been focusing on modernizing its armed forces under Xi Jinping’s leadership, aiming to become a “world-class” military by 2050.

High-ranking U.S. officials have warned of China’s readiness for a possible invasion of Taiwan as early as 2027. Beijing asserts that Taiwan is an integral part of China and has not ruled out using force to reunify the island.

The documents do not explicitly mention Taiwan, but the deal is believed to enhance China’s parachuting capabilities, potentially expediting any invasion plans. The agreement includes the sale of various military vehicles and equipment worth over $210 million.

The Russian assistance is seen as valuable in providing training and operational know-how to China’s airborne forces. The analysis suggests that Russia’s motive is to establish itself as a key military supplier to China and possibly use the deal to distract the U.S. from Russia’s conflict with Ukraine.

While China possesses advanced military equipment, Russia’s experience in airborne operations fills certain gaps in China’s capabilities. The collaboration between the two countries aims to address weaknesses in each other’s military strategies.

The analysis also mentions Russia’s recent military engagements and the potential implications for its arms sales to China. The documents highlight the technical specifications and testing requirements for the equipment being supplied to China.

In conclusion, the analysis emphasizes the strategic implications of the Russia-China military partnership and its potential impact on regional security dynamics.