The view from China

The People’s Republic of China (PRC) is a large continental power perching on the edge of the Pacific Ocean. It is bottled-up on all maritime flanks by an array of free and open countries, four of which are treaty allies of the United States (US). This map visualises the tremendous hurdles Chinese geostrategists must overcome to dominate their own region, let alone the Pacific Ocean.

Where this map is used:

• Taiwan: Invasion is not likely, but deterrence remains vital
• China’s growing undersea capability: Meeting the challenge