Who Would Win In A War Over The South China Sea?

Financial Review: China-US military balance not so lop-sided

If it came to a war over the South China Sea, who would win?

Ten years ago, the answer would have been a resounding nod to the United States. While the odds are still well in the super power's favour today, military experts say the costs would be high and China could inflict some serious damage.

Of course, this is an extreme scenario. Most analysts agree that the chance of a conventional war between China and the US over the South China Sea is low, precisely because the consequences are so serious.

It would pit a rising military power against the most established fighting force in the world, which would ostensibly be acting in support of its regional allies and to maintain its influence in the region.

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WNU Editor: If a war broke out today .... the U.S. would win, and it will recover quickly (i.e. a few years). If a war breaks out 10 years from now .... the U.S. would win but the recovery would be long and difficult. 20 years .... if current trends continue .... China will be well positioned to come out on top. China is playing the long game .... they feel confident that with time (i.e. a decade or two) they will be positioned to assert their claims with force, and there is nothing that anyone can do about it.