Be wary of defence contractors, Chinese study warns, pointing to US system

A study published Monday by researchers at Shanghai Jiao Tong University’s National Institute of Strategic Studies warns China about the risks of defense contractors wielding excessive influence over defense policy. The study cites the United States' military-industrial complex as an example, suggesting its profit-driven expansion has led to a situation where the Department of Defense, private contractors, and congressional committees form an "iron triangle." This alliance, according to the researchers, has resulted in a mutually reinforcing system where profits, increased defense budgets, and political capital are aligned, potentially hijacking U.S. national security policy. The study aims to advise Beijing on avoiding similar pitfalls.