Palmer Luckey Outlines ‘China 27’ Strategy Amid Taiwan Tensions

Palmer Luckey, the founder of defense technology company Anduril Industries, has unveiled a strategic framework known as “China 27,” which aims to prepare for a potential conflict over Taiwan. In a recent appearance on the Joe Rogan Experience podcast, Luckey stated that he believes China may attempt to invade Taiwan “sometime in 2027.” He emphasized the need for readiness, suggesting that underestimating the situation could lead to dire consequences.

Luckey clarified that while he acknowledges the possibility of being mistaken about China’s intentions, he prefers to err on the side of caution. “Imagine how stupid I’ll feel if I spend hundreds of millions of dollars building a new weapon system that I know is not going to come into service until the 2030s,” he remarked. He expressed concern that investing in long-term projects might leave Anduril unprepared for an impending crisis.

The discussion included insights into his view of China’s likely approach to Taiwan. Luckey suggested that rather than a full-scale invasion, China might implement a blockade to isolate the island. He emphasized the importance of equipping Taiwan with defensive capabilities, stating, “You want to have things like sea mining capabilities that make a blockade basically impossible to affect without destroying the entire fleet.”

Luckey also revealed that he recently visited Taiwan to deliver military supplies, including missiles specifically designed to counter a potential Chinese assault. He advocated for a strategic shift in U.S. military policy, arguing that the United States should focus on providing arms without engaging directly in foreign conflicts. “The U.S. should become the world’s gun store,” he stated, highlighting the need for a reliable supply of defense equipment for allies.

Anduril Industries, under Luckey’s leadership, has sought to challenge traditional defense contractors by adopting a more agile approach to military procurement. The U.S. military appears to be evolving in response, with Dan Driscoll, U.S. Army Secretary, stating on October 13, 2023, that the Army aims to “disrupt the system that held the Army back for decades.”

In a notable collaboration, Meta announced in May 2023 a partnership with Anduril to develop next-generation extended reality gear for military applications. This project is financed through private capital, aiming to save the U.S. military billions. The partnership has already yielded results, as Anduril unveiled its new product line, EagleEye, on October 13. These devices, which include helmets and visors, are designed to enhance soldiers’ situational awareness on the battlefield.

Anduril has also made significant strides in the drone sector, securing a $642 million contract with the U.S. Marine Corps in March 2023 to develop anti-drone systems. The company was publicly valued at $30.5 billion in June 2023, reflecting its growing influence in the defense industry.

The focus on Taiwan and the broader implications of U.S.-China relations highlight the shifting dynamics in global security. As tensions rise, Luckey’s “China 27” strategy represents a proactive approach in an increasingly unpredictable geopolitical landscape.