Endemic, culturally embedded corruption, China’s communist system, and geographic constraints make it hard for China to achieve the naval capability to counter the US. China not only has to build the necessary ships, but they have to put them to sea properly manned and equipped, and they have to do so for months at a time without serious mishap. And they have to do it against the US Navy, an experienced and capable adversary. China is not there yet, if she ever will be.
India highlighted this when the did a force projection 2600 mile away to capture a pirated ship and take prisoner 35 pirates. While the Chinese could have set only 4 frigates, at best, but due to lack of refueling would never have made it that far.
China vs. India: Chinese Knock-Offs Can’t Hold Up
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EYnsyVSP_lY
Sep 22, 2024 #chinaobserver
China’s escort missions have traditionally been low-key and thrifty. Deploying a large fleet for a few dozen pirates is not the CCP’s style, so sending out one or two frigates is already considered a “big deal.” However, relying solely on frigates to patrol vast ocean areas can be inefficient.
Without aerial reconnaissance, locating a commercial ship that isn’t broadcasting an identifier becomes a difficult task. Ship-borne helicopters can assist, but their limited range often restricts their effectiveness.
While China has criticized India’s approach as “using a sledgehammer to crack a nut,” in situations that require more robust support, China’s more restrained strategy may face challenges in delivering effective results.
Indian media mocks China’s “dumpling-making” shipbuilding spree. They criticize China for not deploying these ships when needed. This criticism points out a key issue. No matter how many ships one has, if they are not used in critical moments, they become mere ornaments.
The retired Vice Commander of the Indian Navy’s Southern Command said it clearly. India’s operation was a signal to China: “See how we can deploy such a large-scale military force in the Indian Ocean. This is our backyard.”