Does the US really need military dominance in NE Asia?
Is a major US military presence in NE Asia really justified?
If so, why?
I'm, inclined to think the answer to both questions is "no". Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan are fully industrialized countries at a high level of development. Their combined GDP is fairly close to that of China; their per capita GDPs far higher. North Korea isn't even remotely comparable.
How do we justify the application of major resources to defend those who are clearly capable of defending themselves?
Not suggesting that we should take no role at all, but given the capabilities of our regional allies and the combination of our limited resources and our commitments elsewhere, I see no reason why we should seek a dominant role.
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