"The big picture: The U.S. has built out bases in the Pacific, poured billions into domestic semiconductor manufacturing, shipped arms to Taipei and shuffled its own military assets - all with an eye on a potential war over theself-governing island. But the sense of urgency has not always matched the tightening timeline - now down to just a single year."
"Then on Monday, Beijing launched drills that its military described as a "stern warning" to separatists. They involve simulated aerial strikes, live-fire exercises by the navy, and other elements designed to emphasize China's ability to surround and conquer the island. While the exercises were likely pre-planned, the arms deal announcement infuriated Beijing. A Chinese embassy spokesperson told Axios such moves "risk turning Taiwan into a powder keg" and accelerating the possibility of conflict in the Taiwan Strait."
The U.S. has expanded Pacific bases, invested heavily in domestic semiconductor manufacturing, shipped weapons to Taipei, and repositioned military assets to prepare for a potential conflict over Taiwan. The timeline for possible conflict has tightened to about one year, prompting increased urgency. The Trump administration approved an $11.1 billion arms sale to Taiwan, including HIMARS, howitzers, anti-tank missiles, and attack drones, triggering Chinese sanctions and large-scale drills described as a "stern warning." U.S. defense production is struggling to meet demand, delaying deliveries such as some F-16V jets, while construction of Pacific airstrips and bases remains in early stages.
Read at Axios
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