ChinaTalk
Why America Didn't Invade Taiwan: WWII Lessons for Xi's Invasion
Jun 6, 2024
In this discussion, J. Kevin McKittrick, a US Army Field Artillery Lieutenant Colonel and Iraq/Afghanistan veteran, shares his insights on the strategic decisions of WWII regarding Taiwan. He highlights the aborted American invasion plan and the critical lessons it holds for today's military strategies. The conversation touches on why bigger forces succeed in amphibious assaults, the continuing relevance of traditional artillery, and Taiwan's defense posture amid geopolitical tensions. McKittrick also critiques the CCP's handling of civil-military relations and why the US doesn't need a rocket force just yet.
51:57
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Quick takeaways
- Force ratios played a crucial role in WWII invasion planning, influencing strategic decision-making.
- Taiwan's defense strategy emphasizes resilience, readiness, and targeted defensive measures for effective deterrence.
Deep dives
Operation Causeway and U.S. Invasion Plan for Formosa in 1944
In August 1944, Operation Causeway emerged among military planners aiming to secure Formosa as part of the U.S. Pacific campaign during World War II. The plan focused on seizing Formosa to cut off Japan's strategic lines of communication, support mainland China, and position bombers closer to Japan. Initially, they planned to take only the southern part of Taiwan to establish air bases and seize the port of Amoi for naval facilities, but General Marshall later decided on the entire island.
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