Part 6/16:
Experts caution against overestimating the threat solely based on the ferry fleet's capacity. Amphibious invasions are complex operations requiring control of the sea and air domains—factors that ships alone cannot guarantee. Fairies and landing barges are critical enablers that extend China's logistical capacity but do not assure success; they are vulnerable to missile strikes and US-Taiwanese defenses.
The development of a port-sailing fleet, therefore, entails providing Beijing with options and flexibility. It adds layers of complexity for US and Taiwanese defense planning—forcing considerations about how to counter civilian vessels that could serve military purposes without violating legal constraints or risking unintended casualties.