Yet if US surface ships don't have effective ASuW capabilities, they only burden the CAW and SS(G)Ns with these roles, in addition to their other missions.
If the PLAN's anti-ship missiles are countered, their surface fleet is only useful for air defense given that its anti-submarine skills are poor.
The PLA is cautious and seemingly aware of its lack of operational experience, particularly in the areas of precision-strike, combined arms and C4ISR.
Therefore, it is reasonable to expect them to rely upon their land-based cruise missiles (ballistic missiles being too risky and held in reserve) in a surprise attack to cripple US forces in the Western Pacific. If this blow fails, however, I think that the PLA would crumble and refocus on defending the mainland.
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