China has massively expanded its naval forces – and is thus challenging America and Taiwan. The People’s Liberation Army is using the recent crisis as an excuse to try to conquer the island republic.
Chinese soldiers before leaving Zhoushan port.
During the Taiwan crisis of 1996, US President Bill Clinton ordered the two aircraft carrier combat groups “Nimitz” and “Independence” with around 130 combat aircraft and around 130 launch pads for “Tomahawk” cruise missiles near the Taiwan Straits. At the time, China had no choice but to give way. Since then, the People’s Republic has learned its lessons. With a huge armament program, it is expanding its armed forces, especially the navy.