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The PLAN, The Future Fleet of 2050
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The People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN)
The Future Fleet of 2050
by Mrityunjoy Mazumdar and Glenn Levick
The introduction of organic air with carriers will see shored based naval aviation remaining much the way it is now. A good force will remain to support the fleet in short-range operations, and this may take into service new fighter/bomber types over coming years to sustain a good capability. A new long-range bomber may still be sought to counter the USN well into the Pacific, much the way the Soviets did during the cold war in the Atlantic, and so retiring ex-Russian Tu-22Ms may yet find their way into the PLAN squadrons in future.
In accordance with improvements in ASW, a new helo-borne capability will be a natural development, and any new type will likely remain influenced by a perfected foreign design, or may be a licensed copy of it. The development of LRMP aircraft with advanced ASW will continue as will the employment of AWACS and satellite based systems capable of controlling a three dimensional battlespace.
In conclusion, it is easy to see that the PLAN of today is a mere shadow of what it is likely to become by 2050, and this extended arm of power projection will be instrumental in flexing the muscle of influence in China's quest for super power status. The PLAN of 2050 will possess capabilities second only to Japan's Navy and will be challenging the USN for regional supremacy.
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Mazumdar and Glenn Levick
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