Would Chinese or US supply lines be more vulnerable in a Pacific conflict?

South China Morning PostCenter-RightEN 1 min read 100% complete by Liu ZhenJanuary 28, 2026 at 03:00 PM

AI Summary

short article 1 min

A Heritage Foundation report, based on an AI-driven study called Tidalwave, assesses the vulnerability of US and Chinese supply lines in a hypothetical year-long conflict in the Western Pacific. The study, analyzing over 7,000 data points, found both nations face critical risks in sustaining fuel and ammunition supplies. While the report urges the US to bolster its reserves and logistical networks due to "sustainment risks" that could lead to defeat, it also identifies China's fuel and ammunition systems as vulnerable to US action. The report suggests the initial 30-60 days of a conflict would be crucial in determining the long-term outcome due to rapid depletion of resources on both sides. The study emphasizes the strategic importance of disrupting the PLA's support systems.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Washington 40% Tidalwave 50% Pacific Ocean 60% Taiwan Strait 60% Heritage Foundation 70% People’s Liberation Army (PLA) 70% China ×390% United States ×590%

Keywords

supply lines 90% us-china conflict 80% vulnerabilities 70% fuel and munitions 70% pacific conflict 60% people's liberation army 50% sustainment risks 50% logistical networks 50% taiwan strait 40%