These 6 Indo-Pacific Air Force Bases Would Decide The Opening Hours Of A Major War

A new analysis argues that, amid a broader “Pivot to the Pacific,” six Indo-Pacific air bases would largely determine the opening hours of a major conflict involving the United States and China. The piece frames the shift as driven by rising security concerns in the South China Sea, noting Chinese advances in areas such as standoff missiles, hypersonic munitions, stealth aircraft and carriers, alongside reported overseas expansion including Djibouti and prototype sixth-generation fighter flights in 2024. It highlights Kunsan Air Base in South Korea, 240 miles (385 km) from the PRC border, describing its rapid counter-air and close air support role and noting a transition from F-16s to Lockheed Martin F-35s. The article continues with other bases but cuts off mid-discussion.