If they’re using Sun Tzu’s Art of War as their guide, then all-out military war is the last resort; the philosophy there centers on “breaking (the) enemy’s resistance without fighting” and “taking the enemy’s country whole and intact”, especially through heavy use of espionage (moles and double agents given the highest consideration).
ding ding ding!
Thanks for your reply. We have been seeing that template, in place, since at least 1993. I’m thinking that they may grab some territory, just to keep the military guys satiated. Wouldn’t need to be much fighting, that way, and it seems like some of these generals and admirals are pining for action. Better to have those guys messing with other Asians, as opposed to the Party Leaders.