Replies

Our strategy has to be based on immediate response.

An EMF attack isn't going to affect subs off the coast of China, and the Chinese need to know that any nuclear attack will result in the annihilation of their military. The response needs to be quick and automatic, because obviously if we have time to think about it, we have time for nuclear blackmail to have its effect.

And we have to let them know that an attack from North Korea will be viewed as an attack by China, and responded to in the very same way.

But frankly, our support for Taiwan, in any case, will be limited. Our military is no longer designed to sustain a war with China. At one time we were manned for a so-called "2-1/2 war" scenario, in which theoretically we could take on the Soviets, the Chinese, and the Cubans simultaneously.

Those days are long gone. Now a war with a Cuba-sized military is all we can handle.

Our strategy has to be based on immediate response.

I couldn’t agree more. But the two main ‘after the fact’ things that concern me are:

(1) the newest Chinese missiles appear to be equipped with extremely modern anti-missile technology

(2) While our own subs will probably be able to launch effective retaliatory strikes, the damage/carnage done here at home could be severe in the meantime.

(3) China is not nearly as concerned about its own civilian casualties as we are, and, without blinking an eye, would sacrifice millions.

But frankly, our support for Taiwan, in any case, will be limited. Our military is no longer designed to sustain a war with China. At one time we were manned for a so-called "2-1/2 war" scenario, in which theoretically we could take on the Soviets, the Chinese, and the Cubans simultaneously … Those days are long gone. Now a war with a Cuba-sized military is all we can handle.

Again, I completely agree.

I believe that if we encourage and help arm Taiwan, and if the Japanese make clear that they will not tolerate an armed take over of the ROC...along with S. Korea, Australia, and the Philipines...then we will be able to counter a move by the PRC. Those other nations, particularly the ROC, Japan, and S. Korea are already rapidly building up their navies to try and counter what the CHinese are doing.

We must remain strong, steadfast, and determined...and reliable in the region to our allies. If we let Taiwan go down without a fight, it will be clear to all that a new super power exists on the Pacific Rim and the other nations will begin to act accordingly.

If we act now to reverse our own trends and curtail those oif the Chinese, I believe we can yet avoid that tragedy (ie. losing Taiwan and the negative impact in Asia and world-wide)...but I am not sure at this point we can avoid a confrontation. I pray I am wrong.