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Joint Force Quarterly

Abstract

This article explores whether a U.S.-led maritime blockade could be an effective strategy in a prolonged conflict with China, particularly if China attempts to take Taiwan by force. Drawing from historical examples, such as the Union blockade during the Civil War and the Allied blockade of Germany in WWI, targeting China’s heavy reliance on maritime imports and exports could destabilize its economy and apply pressure on the Chinese Communist Party. However, China’s advanced naval capabilities, robust land-based defenses, and diplomatic challenges with neutral states add layers of difficulty. The article highlights the need to balance two conflicting approaches: countervalue operations that disrupt China’s economy and counterforce actions targeting Chinese military assets. Krasnicki suggests that a carefully managed blockade, backed by allied support and diplomacy, could prevent further escalation, minimize the need for direct strikes on Chinese territory, and allow for post-conflict economic recovery.

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