ABSTRACT
US credibility as a dependable ally is a vital factor in the Taiwan issue. The Republic of China government remained a staunch US ally throughout World War II until the breaking of diplomatic relations in January 1979. Taipei has let it be known through various channels that its air and port facilities are available for use by American military forces in the event of an international crisis. US assessments of the People's Republic of China (PRC) threat to Taiwan have been consistently low since the normalization of Sino-American relations. In part this reflects the apparent commitment by Beijing since late 1978 to pursue a policy of peaceful reunification instead of military "liberation" with respect to Taiwan. In part it also reflects hesitancy in Washington to focus public attention on the PRC threat to Taiwan. In terms of total military capabilities, the PRC clearly enjoys superiority over Taiwan in most crucial categories.
