Is Asia now witnessing Cold War 2.0? (Opinion)
There is no doubt that the modern PLA is leaner and meaner than it ever has been.
Just how far will strategic competition between China and the US extend, and just who is it that is upsetting the apple cart?
China is forever accusing the US of harbouring a ‘Cold War mentality’, whatever that might be. But has the world already witnessed the beginnings of a new Cold War, one centred on Asia?
The first question is to define what a Cold War is.
If one looks at the prototype – the original Cold War between the USSR on one hand and the US and allies on the other – key characteristics can perhaps be narrowed down to four elements: the threat of nuclear war; competition for allegiance from others; sharply opposed ideologies; and economic/military support for others’ enemies.
Now,
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Defence Notes
-
![New Zealand buys tri-service uncrewed kit from Syos Aerospace]()
New Zealand buys tri-service uncrewed kit from Syos Aerospace
As uncrewed technology continues to play an increasingly central role in modern military activities, New Zealand’s recent acquisitions point towards its the force’s focus on cost-effective capability.
-
![Golden Dome for America hits one-year mark but key questions remain on its progress]()
Golden Dome for America hits one-year mark but key questions remain on its progress
Integration issues, bureaucracy and undefined policies and authorities could hamper the full implementation of the “shield” to defend the US territory against aerial threats.
-
![US Air Force pushes Sentinel’s initial capability to early 2030s despite China’s nuclear progress]()
US Air Force pushes Sentinel’s initial capability to early 2030s despite China’s nuclear progress
While the US struggles to modernise the 50-year-old land leg of its nuclear triad, China has been rapidly developing and fielding new nuclear capabilities.
