Indo-Pacific Security Architecture Between the US and China
Taiwan, the South China Sea, and new alliances
An overview of the Indo-Pacific security environment, from US-China rivalry to regional alliances and escalation risks.
Taiwan as the most likely flashpoint
Taiwan remains the most dangerous point of friction between the United States and China. Military exercises, air and sea incursions, and political signaling all raise the risk of miscalculation. Even a small incident could escalate quickly because neither side wants to look weak.
The South China Sea and maritime claims
China claims large parts of the South China Sea, creating friction with coastal states such as Vietnam and the Philippines. US freedom of navigation operations are intended to defend maritime law and keep sea lanes open, but they also deepen the strategic rivalry.
New alliances and security formats
Formats such as the Quad, bringing together the US, Japan, India, and Australia, and AUKUS, linking Australia, the UK, and the US, have strengthened military cooperation. At the same time, ASEAN states continue trying to balance economic dependence on China against their own security concerns.
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