Last week's revelation of new portable bridge docks is a signal that the next 18-24 months are likely to see some shocking new PLA capabilities. When Xi Jinping in 2021 allegedly directed the PLA to be prepared to compel Taiwan unification by 2027, it wasn't a war decision, but it wasn't nothing. 

The operational challenges for the PLA are daunting. There are specific problems it needs to solve, for invasion or blockade to be viable. The bridge docks, if produced in sufficient numbers, could enable heavy over-beach operations. Superiority in information, maritime, and air operations requires major PLA advances, some of which have been underway for years, as documented in annual DOD reports.

The new US administration is going to confront PLA developments that will drive tensions and blur analytic debates over Chinese capabilities, and intentions. Buckle up.