China has made rapid advancements in advanced technologies such as robotics, satellites, and artificial intelligence, with some sectors reportedly catching up to or surpassing the United States. Chinese electric vehicle companies are recognized among the world's best, and AI startups in China are considered competitive with leading U.S. firms like OpenAI and Google. The Australian Strategic Policy Institute has identified China as a global leader in cutting-edge science and technology research, highlighting its outpacing of the U.S. in critical technologies. These developments are seen as part of China's broader strategy for self-reliance and economic strength under President Xi Jinping's leadership, preparing the country for ongoing strategic competition with the United States. Despite Beijing's dominance in AI and aerial weaponry, some assessments note that China still lags behind the U.S. in certain areas, such as ground forces. Meanwhile, the People’s Liberation Army has significantly expanded its military capabilities amid U.S. concerns about China's potential threat to national security.