[ponder life]

Yes, Panda. If the US does that, China will LOSE.

I am well aware of how important it is to many Americans (especially good ol boys like yourself) that there is a clear US military advantage.

However, most Chinese are not interested in an arms race and are more concerned with economic progress. They will leave the arms race to people like you. Most Chinese want to see their navy add a few carriers. But most do not want to stretch their resources across the globe.

As long as Americans see it as their role, then by all means, send your own sons and daughters across the globe and let China's sons and daughters work for IBM :)

[grey_whiskers]

I am well aware of how important it is to many Americans (especially good ol boys like yourself) that there is a clear US military advantage.

"Good ol boys" like myself?

I'm Minnesotan. Uffda.

As it is, I would much rather see the US remain the Arsenal of Democracy, than see it knuckle under to the Arsenal of Maoism.

Hint: many Chinese want to come to the States, and then stay. Happens with people from all over the world. Very few want to go to the Third-World economic disaster sites like China.

Cheers!