Opening the Floor: The Rivalry Between Eagle and Dragon in Asia-Pacific

Abstract

It was a warm, sunny day when the majestic grey aircraft carrier and the other 11 modern naval vessels of the flotilla crested the waves in a marginal sea belonging to the Pacific Ocean. Mist sprayed their bows like flakes of snow. The screeching gulls that had trailed the ships after they left port were long gone. The ships’ crews—several thousand men and women—were disciplined and conducted the ongoing combat drills of their battle group with unswerving routine. They were excited, had been well-trained for their mission and were honoured to serve their nation at sea. The ships’ banners displaying stars and stripes were waving proudly in the wind, telling a tale of their nation’s military prowess and long naval history. The officers on the bridge of the carrier were discussing the further developments of their maritime exercise, while enjoying cups of steaming hot tea.