In the words of the U.S Overseas Basing Commission, U.S. military bases are, “the skeleton upon which the flesh and muscle of operational capability molded.”

President Obama’s recent speech in Japan stands out as a classic example of rhetoric diverging from reality.

The status of Taiwan stands out among global disputes as one that could realistically trigger a war between major powers.  This backgrounder will first provide a brief historical overview of the conflict and then explore the changing military situation.