The Taiwan issue is one of the most sensitive issues in Sino-US relations, and in recent years, the situation in the Taiwan Strait has become increasingly tense with the increase in US arms sales and military contacts with Taiwan, as well as some provocative acts by the Taiwan authorities. The British "Economist" recently published an article claiming that "the United States and China are preparing for war over Taiwan" and analyzed the military strength and strategic intentions of both sides.
The article notes that the commander of the US Pacific Command, Admiral John Aquilino, has publicly stated that "if deterrence fails, you must be ready to fight and win." "The United States is stepping up its military deployment around the Taiwan Strait, including sending aircraft carrier battle groups, strategic bombers and fighter jets. The United States is also making advanced efforts to Taiwan, such as F-16V fighters, M1A2T tanks and MK-48 torpedoes. The U.S. aims to improve Taiwan's defense capabilities while demonstrating to China its commitment and determination toward Taiwan.
The article believes that China is also actively preparing for war and enhancing its ability and confidence in attacking Taiwan. The Chinese People's Liberation Army has a large number and technologically advanced army, navy and air force, as well as powerful missiles and nuclear **. China is also conducting military Xi to demonstrate its determination and deterrence against Taiwan. The article quoted the US Pacific Commander** as saying that the biggest disadvantage of the PLA is its lack Xi of actual combat experience, but by learning from cases such as the Russia-Ukraine war, the PLA can make up for this shortcoming. The article also said that the PLA's strategy of attacking Taiwan is mainly to use anti-access area denial (A2 AD) to prevent US interference, and then carry out rapid landing and control.
The article analyzes the possible battlefield situation and results once a war breaks out in the Taiwan Strait. The article believes that the Taiwan side is facing tremendous pressure not only to resist the attack of the People's Liberation Army, but also to expect US assistance. The article points out that Taiwan's military strength is far inferior to that of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) and it lacks the will to fight and popular support. The article also mentions that Taiwan may take defensive measures such as laying mines, shipwrecks and other obstacles, as well as street fighting in cities, but these will not be able to stop the PLA offensive. The article argues that US aid is not necessarily timely and effective, because US aircraft carriers and other military targets may be attacked by the PLA, and US politics and public opinion may not support the rescue of Taiwan.
The article concludes by warning that the risk of a war between China and the United States in the Taiwan Strait is very high, that there is no room for concessions on either side, and that it could escalate into a protracted war. The article calls on the United States to act cautiously, not to provoke China excessively, and not to force China to take military action. The article believes that a war in the Taiwan Strait will not benefit either side and will only bring disastrous consequences to Sino-US relations and world peace. The article suggests that China and the United States should seek a peaceful solution through dialogue and consultation to avoid the outbreak of war in the Taiwan Strait.