A massive complex is being built in the western part of Beijing, according to sources from the US intelligence community, which is expected to serve as a command center in the event of war. The complex, which is reportedly larger than the Pentagon, is being constructed on a 1,500-hectare site, approximately 30 kilometers southwest of the Chinese capital.
Satellite images, reviewed by the US intelligence agencies, show a site with deep trenches, which, according to military experts, are likely to be the foundation for large, reinforced bunkers designed to protect the Chinese military leadership in the event of a conflict, possibly even a nuclear war.
Multiple US officials claimed that the intelligence community is closely monitoring the complex, which, according to their estimates, would be the largest military command center in the world, at least ten times the size of the Pentagon.
Construction on the site began in mid-2024, according to an analysis of satellite images provided to the Financial Times. Three sources familiar with the situation confirmed that some intelligence analysts have referred to the project as “Beijing Military City.”
Although no visible military presence is apparent on the site, signs indicate that drone flights and photography in the surrounding area are prohibited. The construction is taking place at a time when the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) is developing new weapons and projects in preparation for the PLA’s centennial in 2027, during which President Xi Jinping has ordered the PLA to develop the capability to attack Taiwan.
The PLA is also rapidly expanding its nuclear arsenal and working to integrate its various branches of the military. The Chinese leadership may be planning to use the new complex as a means of greater security against American bunker-busting bombs and even nuclear weapons, the Financial Times commented, adding that it may also feature advanced and secure communication systems and space for the expansion of the PLA’s capabilities and missions.