How U.S. Intelligence Views China’s Military Power with Admiral Michael Studeman
From Intel at the Edge by Special Competitive Studies Project - SCSP
February 25, 2026 · 47 min · Episode 15
About this episode
Admiral Michael Studeman discusses the U.S. Intelligence perspective on China's military power and recent leadership changes within the PLA.
Admiral Michael Studeman joins "Intel at the Edge " to discuss the shifting landscape of Indo-Pacific security. Drawing from his decades of experience in the U.S. Intelligence Community, including as the Director of Intelligence at Indo-Pacific Command, Admiral Studeman provides a rare inside look into how America’s intelligence services view China’s growing military power and how Beijing is positioning itself for regional and global leadership. Additionally, as Former Director of the Office of Naval Intelligence, Admiral Studeman breaks down the sudden removal of General Zhang Youxia and what it means for the future of the PLA. Is Xi Jinping clearing out "overcautious" generals to make room for "Yes Men!"? We dive deep into China's massive military modernization and why Admiral Studeman believes the "window of greatest danger" is closer than we think.
People in this episode
Guest: Admiral Michael Studeman
Topics covered
- Indo-Pacific security
- China's military power
- U.S. Intelligence
- military modernization
- geopolitical leadership
- PLA leadership changes
Keywords
- Indo-Pacific
- China
- military power
- U.S. Intelligence
- Admiral Michael Studeman
- General Zhang Youxia
- Xi Jinping
- PLA
- military modernization
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: U.S. Intelligence Community, Indo-Pacific Command, Office of Naval Intelligence
Places: Indo-Pacific, China, PLA
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