How a criticized LCS can still exert naval pressure

The proposed diplomatic use of the Littoral Combat Ship exploits the difference between combat reputation and the consequences of attacking a commissioned US warship. Chinese criticism of the LCS could make backing down before one embarrassing. Firing on it, however, would risk a much larger conflict, especially with a stronger American task group nearby. An Arleigh Burke destroyer and USS America provide the example of forces supporting an LCS from farther away. The argument therefore treats the LCS as a possible means of confronting fishing fleets or maritime militia while larger ships provide backing. Doubts about whether the ships could operate reliably in some of the waters concerned remain part of the proposal.