Danger of war in Taiwan
Relations between China and the USA are worse than they have been since the late 1970s. Experts believe that a war over Taiwan is only a matter of time.
Australia has a key role to play in this smouldering conflict due to its geopolitical position. The country has long allowed the USA to use its military infrastructure and has recently pumped billions into the modernisation of its military.
In particular, the expansion of the ‘Pine Gap’ espionage centre, which is operated jointly with the USA, is regarded as a flagship project of American-Australian cooperation - and a clear signal to China that Down Under would stand firmly by the USA in the event of war. The recent announcement by the USA to station six nuclear-capable B-52 bombers in Darwin also fits in with this. The signs are pointing to escalation.
But how would a Sino-American war over Taiwan unfold? What consequences would a war have for the region?
US military analysts have addressed this question and played through various war scenarios in a military simulation game. They show what strengths and weaknesses the respective opponents would have, what war strategies they would use and what outcome could be expected.
They also show that there would only be losers on all sides in such a conflict. According to the military analysts, the Taiwanese civilian population in particular would suffer horrendous losses.
An end to the tensions is currently not in sight. On the contrary: China insiders such as Victor Gao from the Chinese government-affiliated ‘Centre for China and Globalisation’ leave no doubt that the nuclear power China would be prepared to go to extremes in case of doubt.
Broadcasting on 13th of March 2025 at 05.00pm on Phoenix/ZDF
Music: POPVIRUS Library