PLA Western Hemisphere Wargames 2025: Beijing's New Combat Reach

Beijing calls Latin America a 'Zone of Peace,' but its latest wargames tell a different story. According to reports by CCTV, on December 19, 2025, an affiliate of China’s state-run broadcaster showcased a military simulation in Xuchang involving the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) conducting combat operations in the Western Hemisphere. The footage revealed Red forces (China) engaging Blue forces (the West) in the Caribbean, the Gulf of Mexico, and near Cuba.

PLA Western Hemisphere Wargames: Beyond the Indo-Pacific

The simulation's focus on the Western Hemisphere aligns with growing concerns from U.S. military officials. The footage depicted PLA activities in strategic chokepoints and regions typically dominated by the United States. This evidence validates warnings from General Laura Richardson regarding China’s dual-use infrastructure—ranging from space radars to commercial ports—that could transition to military use during a conflict.

The Threat of Dual-Use Infrastructure

China’s strategic footprint in Latin America is no longer just economic. The Chancay port in Peru, operated exclusively by COSCO, and the deep-space radar in Argentina provide the PLA with significant logistical and intelligence advantages. In Cuba, the U.S. has confirmed the existence of ELINT facilities in multiple sites, placing vital military hubs in Florida and the East Coast within range of Chinese surveillance.

Furthermore, China's ability to exert influence over the Panama Canal through technical knowledge and local relationships could disrupt critical U.S. supply lines during a Taiwan contingency. The simulation suggests that China isn't just looking to defend its shores—it's preparing to project power directly into the U.S. strategic rear.