How is 'comprehensive national power' reflected in PLA doctrine?

• A. Military power alone determines success.
• B. Military power integrated with political, economic, scientific, and diplomatic resources to deter and win.
• C. Economic power without military capability.
• D. Diplomatic power without science.

Answer: (B)

Comprehensive national power means leveraging all instruments of national power together—the military, political will, economy, science and technology, diplomacy, and information—to deter adversaries and win, not relying on military strength alone. In PLA doctrine, military capability is one essential element, but its power is magnified when it is integrated with a strong economy, cutting-edge technology, political resolve, and international influence. This integrated approach shapes the strategic environment, enables deterrence, and provides multiple avenues to victory, including options short of full-scale conflict.

That is why the best description is the one that combines military power with political, economic, scientific, and diplomatic resources to deter and win. Relying on economic power without military means, or on diplomacy without scientific and technological strength, would not fully equip a state to deter opponents or prevail in modern competition.