I had absolutely no idea that the ancient Chinese merchants hired pre-Philippines mercenaries as (ship) caravan guards. Thanks for that bit of info 😊
This is probably the most dangerous period for us since we're still at the beginning of our air force & navy modernization (after decades of neglect) - and China knows it.
The chances are high now that they'll miscaculate because of this and push us beyond a red line, thinking we won't push back. But we will, as we always have.