OK CNO, now then Break in to Open Revolt to Get the Forces we Need

Some strong words towards China from the CNO at the end of last week that isn't quite getting the play it would in a normal years.

Almost Salamandereaque:

America's military must be ready to respond to a potential Chinese invasion of Taiwan that could come before the end of this year, the head of the US Navy has said.

Admiral Michael Gilday, chief of US naval operations, was the latest senior US military official to indicate heightened alarm over Beijing's intentions towards the island.

"So when we talk about the 2027 window in my mind, that has to be a 2022 window or potentially a 2023 window. I can't rule that out. I don't mean at all to be alarmist by saying that. It's just that we can't wish that away."

The admiral said the US Navy had adopted a "fight tonight" mentality in response and should become ready quicker, prioritising lethality and the size of the fleet.

...

Adm. Gilday said: "It's not just what President Xi says, it's how the Chinese behave and what they do. And what we've seen over the past 20 years is that they have delivered on every promise they've made earlier than they said they were going to deliver on it."

To be prepared, the US should "maximise domestic production rates of weapons that really matter in a fight" and "give industry a clear set of predictable, stable funding".

Those are good, clear, direct and actionable words, but are we going to see consistent focus and follow-through? Will we have more Flag Officers continue to reinforce these statements?

More importantly - will we skate along the appropriate lines inside the DC beltway to advocate for the maritime and aerospace requirements to answer the bell ... now?