US General Highlights Taiwan Strait Surveillance as Deterrent to Chinese Invasion US Army Pacific Commander General Ronald P. Clark stated that continuous Taiwan Strait surveillance by several countries makes a Chinese invasion unlikely. He shared these views during the latest Strategic Landpower Dialogue event. Clark explained that this surveillance creates a strong deterrent against any attempt to cross the strait by force. He said the combined watchfulness by multiple nations forms an “unblinking eye” over the 128-kilometer-wide body of water.
This coordination significantly lowers China’s chances of a successful military crossing. Moreover, Clark highlighted two major lessons the Chinese military has learned from US operations. First, he said the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) sees that US forces demonstrate skill and readiness. He pointed out that American soldiers are “lethal and ready” in all military aspects, including sensing, striking, and sustaining operations. According to Clark, the PLA cannot currently match these capabilities. Second, Clark noted the US military focuses heavily on countering a potential cross-strait invasion. He described this as the most dangerous possible scenario in the region.
US operational planning at various command levels centers on the challenge of crossing a water gap, often called a “wet gap crossing.” He stressed that such an operation requires a wide range of capabilities, from naval to air support. Clark emphasized that conducting an uncontested crossing over the Taiwan Strait is highly improbable. Consequently, the US is investing to make this challenge even more difficult for China. Furthermore, Clark emphasized that the US strengthens its regional partnerships to enhance deterrence. Allies and partners frequently conduct operations in the Taiwan Strait to build joint capabilities.
This cooperation helps contest aggressive and coercive activities in the region. Finally, Clark underlined the importance of internal military cohesion. He said all service members must understand the critical nature of their mission. Clark stressed that the US military operates with a shared commitment, stating, “we’re in this thing together.” In conclusion, General Clark made clear that Taiwan Strait surveillance plays a crucial role in deterring Chinese aggression and maintaining regional security.
