US advisory panel warns China is gaining in undersea warfare
South China Morning Post
by Xinmei ShenMarch 2, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
A key congressional advisory panel has issued a stark warning about China’s rapid advancement in underwater military capabilities, urging the Pentagon to preserve its dominance in undersea warfare. The panel emphasized the growing tensions between the U.S. and China, particularly as an important summit looms on the horizon. China’s investments in submarines, undersea cables, and sea-floor mining are raising concerns that these efforts could challenge the U.S. lead in this critical domain of military technology.
The hearing highlighted that China’s focus on underwater capabilities is not just about naval strength but also about strategic control over key resources like minerals and energy reserves beneath the ocean floor. Experts warned that such advancements could give China a significant edge in surveillance, communication, and offensive operations at sea. This shift in maritime power dynamics has far-reaching implications for global security, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region.
The panel’s call to action underscores the importance of maintaining U.S. superiority in undersea warfare, which is seen as a cornerstone of American military strategy. Analysts suggest that China’s rapid progress could disrupt the balance of power in the South China Sea and other contested regions, where underwater capabilities play a crucial role in both defense and resource extraction.
For readers interested in global affairs, this development highlights the escalating competition between two superpowers and its potential impact on international stability. As China continues
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 3/2/2026