US Response

“So, it was a lethal attack on US warships.” The anchor stated flatly. “Is the Navy firing back?”

“Dan, the massive distances of the Pacific Ocean provide a significant advantage for the country with the longest-ranged weapons. Estimates are that Chinese hypersonic missiles have ranges approaching 2,000 nautical miles. And since these were air-launched, the aircraft firing them effectively extended that range to unknown distances. My sources don’t know if the US Navy is even capable of effective return fire at this point.”

“What’s been the official US Government response to this, Kelly?”

“The State Department informed us just a few minutes ago that the President is assessing the situation and preparing to make a national address within the hour, Dan.”