To: Bilow who wrote (120769 ) 12/1/2003 12:16:54 AM From: h0db Read Replies (2) | Respond to Carl, I think that most public sources on the Strait balance are out of date, primarily because of the pace of Chinese modernization. Since 2001, Congress has mandated that DoD provide an annual report on the Chinese military, which seems to in turn feed most academic studies. Below is snipped from the most recent such report (July 28, 2003):defenselink.mil Air Forces. The Taiwan Air Force (TAF) dominated the airspace over the Taiwan Strait for many years. Today, Taiwan maintains a qualitative edge over and possesses twice as many 4thgeneration fighters as China. The PLAAF does not appear focused on large-force employment or sustaining high sortie rates for extended periods of operations. Pilot proficiency is improving, but China s best pilots lag behind their Taiwan counterparts in terms of capabilities. However, China s force modernization, weaponry, pilot training, tactics, and command and control are gradually beginning to erode Taiwan s qualitative edge. The number of Chinese 4th generation fighters eventually will surpass those of Taiwan. China also is seeking to improve situational awareness.
