Tensions rising over China's aircraft carrier quest

China's declared intention of gaining naval supremacy in its and neighboring waters--and perhaps in oceans far away--puts the United States in a difficult position; mainly because there's not a lot it can do about it.

China intends to launch its first domestically produced aircraft carrier--one of the most visible symbols of a nation's military might--within five years.

Unlike the United States, which along with the former Soviet Union, spent decades building up its military machine, China is trying to play catch-up in record time.

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