As China advances its pursuit of global leadership in defense and military technologies, it is now constructing a massive new military command center near its capital—one that is reportedly set to be ten times the size of the Pentagon, according to the Financial Times, citing U.S. intelligence officials.
Named Beijing Military City, construction of the facility began in mid-2024.
Recent satellite imagery reveals deep excavations across the 1,500-acre site, located 30 km southwest of Beijing. The new command center is expected to feature extensive infrastructure, including large buildings and fortified bunkers, potentially designed to safeguard top Politburo officials during conflicts, including a nuclear war.
‘10 times bigger than the Pentagon‘
An unnamed Chinese researcher told the publication, “Nearly 10 times bigger than the Pentagon, it’s fitting for Xi Jinping’s ambitions to surpass the US.” The researcher further stated, “This fortress only serves one purpose, which is to act as a doomsday bunker for China’s increasingly sophisticated and capable military.”
The facility is expected to replace the existing Western Hills complex, offering significantly enhanced protection against potential U.S. “bunker buster” munitions and nuclear strikes.
According to The Telegraph, U.S. intelligence officials and former CIA analysts believe the construction of this site indicates China’s ambition to develop advanced nuclear warfighting capabilities. Access to the facility remains highly restricted, with signs prohibiting drone flights and photography. The report noted, “Guards at one gate abruptly said that entry was prohibited and refused to talk about the project. One supervisor leaving the construction site refused to comment on the project.”
Dennis Wilder, former head of China analysis for the CIA, commented, “If confirmed, this new advanced underground command bunker for the military leadership, including President Xi as the chairman of the Central Military Commission, signals Beijing’s intent to build not only a world-class conventional force but also an advanced nuclear warfighting capability.”
