Iran war offers China key insights into future US military strategy

Military experts say China is studying the ongoing US-Iran conflict for lessons that could shape any future confrontation involving Taiwan and the United States.

Speaking to CNN, analysts in China and Taiwan said the war has highlighted both the strengths and vulnerabilities of modern military systems, especially air defences and drone warfare.

Former Chinese air force colonel Fu Qianshao said Iran’s ability to bypass advanced US defence systems had raised concerns for Beijing.

“We need to devote significant efforts to identify weakness in our defensive side to ensure we remain invincible in future wars,” Fu told CNN.

Experts noted that Iran used lower-cost drones and ballistic missiles to challenge sophisticated American systems such as Patriot and THAAD batteries, while the US combined advanced aircraft like F-35s and B-2 bombers with cheaper guided munitions.

Taiwanese analysts also warned that drone warfare could play a major role in any future conflict across the Taiwan Strait.

“Long-range rockets and drone swarms will definitely play a key role in China’s joint military operations against Taiwan,” Chieh Chung told CNN.

The report comes as tensions remain high between China and Taiwan, which Beijing claims as part of its territory despite never having governed the island.