Storm Warnings in the West Pacific

The tiny Pacific island of Guam sits just off the lip of the Mariana Trench , a fissure in the sea bed that plunges to the hadal depth of 36,000 feet ( around 10,973 metres ) It is a crucial link in the “ second island chain” that stretches from Japan down to Western New Guinea ( one of three such chains representing an old Cold War strategy to contain China ). Most significantly, Guam sits 1,700 miles ( 2,736 km ) from Taiwan .

The potential for catastrophe is alarmingly high, making an American arsenal in the region all the more vital.

The US brought a Typhon missile system to the Philippine island of Luzon , which lies within striking distance of China .

North Korea is flaunting its nuclear build-up by showcasing uranium-enrichment facilities, in defiance of the UN .

The situation on the peninsula is more dangerous than at any time since early June 1950 .

Nothing is guaranteed, but all eyes should be on the West Pacific , and on Beijing .

Massive deterrence is the key, says Robert Carlin and Siegfried Hecker .

A huge increase in the presence and rotation of Western military forces in the first and second island chains will keep him second -guessing himself.