By coordinating these strikes with ISR and bombing operations conducted by B-21 Raiders, as well as volleys of ADM-160 Miniature Air Launched Decoys deployed by B-52 bombers also operating outside engagement ranges, the C-130 and its Rapid Dragon pallets could provide a low-cost, high effect means of overwhelming Chinese defenses.

Yet, it is important to understand that these modern C-130Js are heavier and more powerful than previous iterations of the aircraft, making it less of a certainty that they could operate from the decks of these carriers – though Admiral Flatley seemed confident they could. 

This method is not a magic bullet, and such a conflict would still be bloody and brutal. The real value in demonstrating this capability wouldn’t necessarily be to leverage it against China in a war, but rather to use it as a stand-in deterrent against Chinese aggression until more robust and technologically advanced means emerge. 

Put simply, operating C-130s off of American aircraft carriers in the Pacific could provide a sufficient threat to throw China’s existing combat calculus off balance. That alone could be enough to push any timeline for the invasion of Taiwan back – potentially far enough for new American capabilities to be brought to bear. 

About the Author 

Alex Hollings is a writer, dad, and Marine veteran.

This article was first published by Sandboxx News.