[konaice]

"all other nations have conceded the seas to the United States, a reason American forces can sail anywhere without interference.."

I thing the writer overstates the case somewhat.

The only naval vessel I can recal being attacked at Sea since the Falklands war have been American Navy ships. Nobody attacks the Mexican Navy or the Norweigen Navy.

[Billy_bob_bob]

Mexican Navy? What possible political advantage could be obtained from attacking the Mexican Navy? That's like going down to the local pre-school and picking on the little kids. Ooooh, big man. Picking on little kids. You'd just end up with everybody hating you. That's no fun.

Sometimes there is a tactical advantage in being the weak player on the board. For example, there are no status point to be gained from pushing you around.