Core Viewpoint - The construction of the next-generation nuclear submarine SSN(X) by the U.S. Navy has been delayed from 2035 to 2040, raising concerns about the U.S. military's declining position in the Western Pacific, particularly in the context of countering China [1][25]. Group 1: Military Exercises and Strategic Context - The REFORPAC exercise, a tribute to the historical REFORGER exercise, aims to test large-scale air combat capabilities in a highly dynamic environment, enhancing coordination between the U.S. and its allies [3]. - The U.S. military's air superiority in the Western Pacific has significantly diminished, with advanced aircraft like the F-35A being stationed far from critical bases like Kadena [4]. Group 2: Nuclear Submarine Deployment and Strategy - The U.S. Navy's nuclear submarine fleet is projected to consist of 48 submarines by 2026, including various classes such as Los Angeles, Seawolf, and Virginia [6][7]. - The Pacific Fleet is expected to have 28 operational submarines, with a significant portion being deployed to counter Chinese naval forces in the Taiwan Strait [7]. - A strategic plan involves deploying submarines covertly to the operational area without escalating tensions, utilizing torpedoes as the primary weapon due to their stealth advantages [5][8]. Group 3: Operational Challenges and Limitations - The operational effectiveness of U.S. nuclear submarines in the Taiwan Strait is questioned due to the complex underwater environment and the presence of advanced Chinese anti-submarine capabilities [17][20]. - The reliance on submarines for maintaining sea denial rather than sea control poses limitations on their effectiveness in achieving broader military objectives in the region [22]. Group 4: Future Developments and Concerns - The SSN(X) program has seen significant budget increases, yet its construction timeline has been pushed back, potentially missing critical operational windows against China [25][23]. - The U.S. Navy's shipbuilding and repair capabilities are under strain, raising concerns about the future readiness and operational capacity of its submarine fleet [22].