The Chinese aircraft carrier Liaoning with support ship. IMINT
Pacific Militaries Rising -- Michael Auslin, Wall Street Journal
While the growing weapons capabilities of Asian nations make the threat of war more serious, they may also encourage diplomacy.
The Royal Australian Navy this week commissioned its newest and largest warship, joining Japan and China in the aircraft-carrier club. It’s a reminder that Asia is set to see increasingly capable navies and air forces operating in its regional waters and skies. While this development raises the potential for international conflict, it might also serve as a balancing mechanism to preserve stability. Now is the time for the region’s politics to catch up to its military development.
Much attention has been paid to China’s single ex-Soviet carrier, the Liaoning, even though it will years before the ship is fully operational. A 300-meter ship displacing more than 50,000 tons, it recently conducted its first flight landings. But it has also suffered countless refitting delays and accidents during sea trials. Nonetheless, the Liaoning has become one of the most visible symbols of Chinese power. It represents a true power-projection capability through congested and contested waters. One day it will allow Beijing to cover vital oceanic passageways like the Strait of Malacca or disputed island groups like the Senkakus, with a standoff capability unmatched by any other regional military. Only the U.S. has the ability to range farther and with more power.
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My Comment: While parity between the Chinese and U.S. military is still years (if not decades) away, if current trends continue U.S. allies in the region will probably be dealing with Chinese superiority much sooner ... hence the defense buildup
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