New Dynasty BattlesetA series of scenarios involving China. This is a hypothetical, but very possible series in which a regional confict eventually draws the U.S. into conflict with China. Gwadar you up to?India vs China & Pakistan - Jan 24, 2015
China has been a net oil importer since 1993, with the bulk of its Middle Eastern energy imports being transported circuitously by sea via the Strait of Malacca. The country's rising demand for overseas oil, fuelled by its rapid economic growth, has raised concern about becoming over-reliant on this narrow waterway.
An alternate supply route in the form of a road and an eventual pipeline from Gwadar, Pakistan to China's westernmost provinces would reduce the dependence. Moreover, situated opposite the Strait of Hormuz, through which 40 per cent of the world's energy exports flow, Gwadar offers Beijing opportunities to monitor shipping along the worlds key oil 'highway' as well as US naval movements in the Gulf region.
In addition to enhancing Chinese energy security, Gwadar also offers Beijing substantial strategic leverage in South Asia. The new port in Pakistan, coupled with the Chinese-backed development of a container port facility at Chittagong in Bangladesh, is likely part of Beijing's larger strategy of 'strategic encirclement' of its rival neighbour, India.
New Delhi has become increasingly unsettled at the prospect of coastal Balochistan being used as a Chinese listening post, as well as the possibility that Chinese naval vessels could dock in such close proximity to Indian territory.
[From Jane's Foreign Report 27 March, 2007]
Author: Eric Weincam
Port Blair WitchChina vs India
China and Pakistan have lodged strong complaints against India for their attack on the military facilities at Gwadar. However, the UN has been slow to respond and has done nothing but ask China to demonstrate restraint. There is fear around the world that China may retaliate with nuclear weapons, but this seems unlikely.
According to US sources, a Chinese SSBN has deployed from its base on Hainan Island in the South China Sea. China has neither confirmed nor denied this, but they HAVE stated that they have the right to conduct deterrent patrols.
Soon after, a pair of Chinese surface warships, operating out of Myanmar, attacked and sank an Indian-flagged container ship in the Bay of Bengal.
China affirmed this action as a retaliation against India. India has announced that they will take whatever steps are necessary to defend their merchant fleet.
Author: Eric Weincam
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