China’s “Wicked” Naval Challenge Poses Training Obstacles for US Air Force

China’s navy has been rapidly expanding in size and capability, causing concern for the US military. As a result, the US Air Force is focusing on improving its ability to sink well-defended warships, particularly due to China’s advanced air defenses. China has been developing its air defense systems for decades, including surface-to-air missiles on land and warships, creating a significant challenge for US forces. China’s navy has become the world’s largest and has been conducting more complex operations in the Pacific. The US military is particularly concerned about the growing threat posed by China’s navy in the event of a clash over Taiwan. China’s ships can create an anti-access/area-denial engagement zone with their surface-to-air missiles, making it necessary for the US to sink these ships. The US is aware of the arsenal China has built to counter its military operations, including the densest and most integrated air-defense system along China’s east coast. China’s strategy focuses on keeping the US and its allies out of the region. China’s navy plans to fight under the cover of its air-defense systems, with destroyers and cruisers playing a crucial role. These warships are equipped with highly dangerous surface-to-air missile systems. While China’s military has not fought a war since 1979, it has studied other wars and learned from other militaries, including the US. China’s naval air-defense network does have a weakness, as its current aircraft carriers cannot launch airborne-early-warning-and-control aircraft. However, its newest carrier, Fujian, will have this capability, significantly enhancing China’s radar coverage. The US Air Force has a long history of training to sink warships and has recently renewed its focus on this mission. Major exercises have involved joint operations with the Navy, and the Air Force is updating its arsenal for maritime operations. The service is also seeking new anti-ship missiles to bridge the gap until it acquires the Long Range Anti-Ship Missile. New targeting systems have made it easier to track and target enemy ships. Overall, the US military is taking China’s growing navy seriously and is actively working to improve its capabilities to counter this threat.