Q&A · 57:25-58:49

Would Russian and North Korean exercises split allied attention?

Large exercises could distract decision-makers, but the Taiwan fight would draw mainly naval and air forces rather than European or Korean ground units.

Question

Would simultaneous Russian and North Korean exercises distract other powers during a Taiwan crisis?

Short answer

The scenario leaves European and Korean ground forces in place while a Taiwan response draws mainly on naval and air power, limiting the diversion created by such exercises.

Notes

Ground forces stationed in Europe would still be available to watch Russia because they would not be the main contribution to a Taiwan campaign. The same reasoning applies to ground forces already watching North Korea. The hypothetical Taiwan intervention primarily requires naval and air power. Chinese superiority in overall force numbers would still have to translate into forces that could cross the strait.