21. China Maritime Report No. 26: Beyond the First Battle: Overcoming a Protracted Blockade of Taiwan
- Author:
- Lonnie D. Henley
- Publication Date:
- 03-2023
- Content Type:
- Special Report
- Institution:
- China Maritime Studies Institute, U.S. Naval War College
- Abstract:
- If there is a war over Taiwan, an extended Chinese blockade is likely to determine the outcome. While a blockade might include intercepting ships at sea, the primary focus would be on sealing airfields and ports, particularly on the west coast of Taiwan. China could sustain that type of blockade indefinitely. Penetrating a prolonged blockade and keeping Taiwan alive would require a serious U.S. investment in systems and operational concepts that we currently do not have. Unless we make that investment, we may win the first battle, defeating an attempted landing. But we cannot win the war.
- Topic:
- Infrastructure, Military Affairs, Maritime, Port, People's Liberation Army (PLA), and Blockade
- Political Geography:
- China, Taiwan, and Asia