[Das Outsider]

Change is coming, and it will be good for China, and for us.

So why the large scale military buildup, then? They have no visible enemies that require such a force as they've built--and continue to build--in the last few years.

I suppose going on war footing could just be a sign that the regime means business as a world power.

[NicknamedBob]

"So why the large scale military buildup, then?"

It's actually for internal consumption. Why did Saddam need such a buildup?

The oppressor needs to externalize the threat, in order to maximize control over the people.

But there are limits, even in China. They are perhaps the world's most patient people, but even they will work to throw off the yoke of oppression.

We have to show them that we are NOT their enemy, and that in fact the People's Army is only meant for the People's Oppression.

E-mail them a few messages.