In order to

[ian2]

Just a simple question, what is the grammatical function of the blue sentence led by "in order to"? Purpose? Or any other function? Thanks.
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The mere existence of these capabilities—including anti-satellite systems—poses challenges for the United States. China does not need to surpass the United States, or even catch up with theUnited States, in order to complicate U.S. defense planning or influence U.S. decision-making in the event of a crisis in the Taiwan Strait or elsewhere.

Looking ahead as far as 2030, however, the Task Force finds no evidence to support the notion that China will become a peer military competitor of the United States.

[svartnik]

Originally Posted by ian2

Just a simple question, what is the grammatical function of the blue sentence led by "in order to"? Purpose? Or any other function? Thanks.
*********************
The mere existence of these capabilities—including anti-satellite systems—poses challenges for the United States. China does not need to surpass the United States, or even catch up with theUnited States, in order to complicate U.S. defense planning or influence U.S. decision-making in the event of a crisis in the Taiwan Strait or elsewhere.

Looking ahead as far as 2030, however, the Task Force finds no evidence to support the notion that China will become a peer military competitor of the United States.

IMO it is a subordinate reason clause