The article focuses on a study that attempts to understand American military posture in East Asia within the context of a U.S.-Japan-China-South Korea-Taiwan pyramid, where the U.S. plays the role of benign leader at the apex. It explores some military arrangements contemplated by the U.S. It examines five official documents made to the public since the inauguration of U.S. President George W. Bush including the "Quadrennial Defense Review Report."
INTERNATIONAL arms control, NUCLEAR nonproliferation, COLD War, 1945-1991, CHINA-Taiwan relations, CHINA-United States relations, NUCLEAR weapons plants, MILITARY strategy
Abstract
Since the Cold War, arms control negotiations have been strictly a bilateral affair between Washington and Moscow. But as times have changed, so must this dynamic. Enter China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
MILITARY strategy, NATIONAL security, INTERNATIONAL relations, DEMOCRACY, INTERNATIONAL security
Abstract
This article assesses Taiwan's strategic options in relation to the US. From Taipei's perspective, the first strategic option is to maintain the interest of the US and this is largely done by emphasizing the threat posed by a rising China. The second strategic option relates to gaining more support from the US through highlighting the island republic's democratic credentials. Importantly, limitations exist in Taiwan's strategic options in part because they are subject to positive responses from the US as well as reactions from China. For Taipei, a middle power, the key therefore is achieving an optimal mix of strategies while overcoming any deficiencies in order to enhance its national security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]