June 30, 2004
Singapore, Singapore, (UPI) -- The United States is planning a massive show of force in the Pacific Ocean near China, reportedly to warn Beijing against using force toward Taiwan.
The exercise, codenamed Operation Summer Pulse 04, is expected to bring seven aircraft carrier strike groups, or CSGs, to waters a safe distance off the Chinese coastline -- but within striking distance -- after mid-July, The Straits Times reported Wednesday.
This will be the first time in U.S. naval history for seven of the navy's 12 CSGs to be sent to one region.
According to a Department of Defense statement, Summer Pulse is to test the U.S. Navy's combat power and readiness in time of crisis.
But sources in Beijing said China views itself as the target audience for Summer Pulse, a suspicion reinforced by reports that Taiwanese forces will join in.
Given Beijing's repeated warnings that it will use force if necessary to stop Taiwanese independence, the U.S. needs to send Beijing a message, the Times reported.
http://washingtontimes.com/upi-breaking/20040629-115143-2994r.htm