A possible invasion of Taiwan has long been derided as the ‘million man swim’ because the Chinese Navy was not equipped to pull it off. That may no longer be the case.
This ‘blue water’ navy makes indirect approaches, from the Pacific side of Taiwan, more viable. In the past China's ability to operate in the open ocean, away from land-based air cover, was doubted. Now the new warships, particularly the destroyers and frigates are well defended enough to encircle Taiwan. China’s fleet of submarines, the world’s largest, could also be used in this way. This could make it harder for the Taiwanese Navy to outflank the invasion fleet.
In an invasion the PLAN's aircraft carriers would likely operate over the horizon where they are safer from counter-attack. But unlike in past wars, their position would probably be known most of the time. Open source intelligence such as commercial satellites provide relatively frequent coverage.The amphibious ships, required to deliver the troops to the shore, have also been transformed beyond all recognition.
The troops involved, at least in the initial assault, would most likely be from the Army’s amphibious assault brigades. China's Marine Corps may play a part but the main amphibious force is in the Army. These are equipped with amphibious tanks and troop carriers. The amphibious assault brigades would establish a beachhead so that a vast fleet of landing ships could pump in fresh troops. Many of these landing ships are older and would have to come right up to the shore to unload their troops and vehicles. But regular main battle tanks would soon join the first troops. Hovercraft would also continue to play a part. There are even several gigantic Zubr Class hovercraft in service which can carry up to 500 troops at a time.
Canada Latest News, Canada Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Taiwan opposition seeks distance from China after poll defeatTaiwan's main opposition party moved to distance itself from China after one of its most senior officials lost a highly charged recall election, as attitudes harden towards Beijing on the democratic island claimed by China.
Read more »
Taiwan decriminalises adultery in landmark rulingTaiwan's constitutional court on Friday decriminalised adultery in a landmark judgment aimed at upholding personal rights and privacy, scrapping a law that activists said discriminated against women.
Read more »
High-profile Taiwan mayor loses recall vote in blow for oppositionA high-profile mayor from Taiwan's main opposition party lost an acrimonious recall vote on Saturday, auguring new problems for the party that is already reeling from losing January elections on the back of strong anti-China sentiment.
Read more »
Taiwan opposition seeks distance from China after poll defeatTaiwan's main opposition party moved to distance itself from China after one of its most senior officials lost a highly charged recall election, as attitudes harden towards Beijing on the democratic island claimed by China.
Read more »