An observation.
Centuries ago, Japan awoke from its long self induced slumber, looked westward and saw a
similar island nation/state w/a very powerful Navy that went where and when it pleased.
Reflecting, Japan said "Why can't that be us" and vowed to change. As a result she became
the ranking world power in Asia till 1945.
In contrast, her neighbor China believed that Marble warships were sufficient to frighten its foes.
Point of the story is direct and simple.
Japan remains the ranking military power in Asia w/China their punching bag for centuries.
Some truly need to get real about China.