"Based on reports analyzing U.S. border data and Department of Defense figures from the Biden administration, there have been claims that the cumulative number of Chinese nationals illegally entering the U.S. "military-age" could equal the personnel strength of several divisions.
Total Numbers and "Division" Equivalents: Reports indicate that from FY 2021 through late 2024, tens of thousands of Chinese nationals crossed the U.S. southern border, with some estimates citing more than 67,800 or 44,000. One analysis, citing Department of Defense data, claimed these individuals could total more than 176 U.S. Army battalions, 35 brigades, or nearly 12 divisions.
Context of the Claims: This narrative stems from concerns by lawmakers, such as Rep. Mark Green (R-TN), who in 2023 claimed that many of these individuals were "military-age men" with potential ties to the People's Liberation Army (PLA).
Official Data vs. Analysis: While the sharp increase in illegal border crossings by Chinese nationals is accurate (rising from 342 in FY 2021 to over 24,000 in FY 2023, and over 38,000 in FY 2024), the interpretation that they constitute a organized "division" level force is a political and analysis-based interpretation of the numbers, not an official report of a military invasion.
Motivation: Reports suggest that the majority of these Chinese citizens are fleeing a repressive political climate and a sluggish economy, often turning themselves in to U.S. authorities to seek asylum. migrationpolicy.org migrationpolicy.org +7 Separately, in the context of the India-China border (LAC): Reports in 2022 indicated that due to the ongoing border standoff, India shifted six of its own Army divisions to deal with the threat from the Chinese army (PLA), which had massed large numbers of troops."