Framework for Understanding U.S.-China Strategic Competition

U.S.-China Competition
Strategic Rivalry
National Power
Science and Technology
Geopolitical Strategy
Domestic Economics
AI Networks
Author

Michael J. Mazarr, Amanda Kerrigan, Sam Plapinger, and others

Published

September 29, 2026

RAND researchers have developed a comprehensive framework for analyzing the U.S.-China competition, identifying seven primary issue areas of national power and influence shaping the rivalry. The report emphasizes that China is conducting an integrated competitive campaign across multiple domains, while the United States has yet to fully embrace the contest’s scope. Science and technology, along with domestic economics, emerge as foundational issues. The analysis stresses that the competition fundamentally concerns which system better serves its people, and highlights third-party alignment, national resilience, and digital and AI network dominance as decisive factors in determining strategic outcomes. More: rand.org

🤖 AI-assisted summary