US Preparing for Possible Conflict with China – WSJ
The United States is ramping up efforts to boost weapons production amid concerns of a potential conflict with China
prativad 
Washington. The United States is ramping up efforts to boost weapons production amid concerns of a potential conflict with China, according to a Wall Street Journal report. The Pentagon fears its current stockpiles may fall short in the event of a major war, and has pressed missile manufacturers to double or even quadruple production.
Sources told the paper that the Pentagon launched this initiative in June, when it invited top missile makers, startups like Anduril Industries, and key component suppliers to a roundtable chaired by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Kane. The effort, dubbed the “Munitions Acceleration Council,” is seen as a major push to strengthen America’s readiness.
Deputy Defense Secretary Steve Feinberg is playing an unusually hands-on role, reportedly calling senior officials weekly to track progress.
Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell said, “President Trump and Secretary Hegseth are taking extraordinary steps to boost US military strength and accelerate weapons production. This effort has been a collaboration between defense industry leaders and senior Pentagon officials.”
Key Highlights
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The new council is focused on 12 weapons systems deemed critical for a potential conflict with China.
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Experts warn the targets may be unrealistic, as assembling certain missile systems can take up to two years.
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Certifying new suppliers to meet military standards could cost millions of dollars.
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While Washington recently approved an extra $25 billion for weapons spending over five years, analysts say billions more will be needed to meet the Pentagon’s goals.
The US views China as its primary strategic rival, citing Beijing’s rapid military modernization, growing influence in the Indo-Pacific, and increased pressure on Taiwan. Washington fears Beijing may attempt forced reunification with the self-ruled island, sparking a regional conflict that could draw in American forces.
China, however, has rejected these claims, calling Taiwan its internal matter and accusing the US of fueling tensions by arming the island and encouraging separatist sentiment.
