That's about all they would need. Seriously, they may not have the naval force, but they almost have to take the opportunity.
It is a dangerously unstable world we are in. While modern states may have eschewed the incestuous royal relationships that led to WWI, they are certainly beset by entangled economic and political alliances. A spark in any of a dozen hot spots could result in a global immolation. Heck, half of FR is ready to nuke five or six nations into oblivion because they are of a different religion!
The Taiwan Strait is 100 miles wide. That's a LONG way to row...
Seriously, they may not have the naval force, but they almost have to take the opportunity.
And destroy a large chunk of the PLA's ability to project power outside of China to no gain.
Incidentally, history shows that LOSING a war is a great way to trigger a military coup.
The Chinese elites are extremely risk-averse; they'd need HUGE assurances.
A spark in any of a dozen hot spots could result in a global immolation. Heck, half of FR is ready to nuke five or six nations into oblivion because they are of a different religion!
Please note that the half in question doesn't have their finger on the button.