the Chinese Navy is about as intimidating as their national hockey team
http://bigstory.ap.org/article/us-aircraft-carrier-cruises-disputed-seasThe U.S. Navy regularly patrols the Asia-Pacific region, conducting joint exercises with its allies and training in the strategic region. The trip by the George Washington off the coast of Vietnam is its third in as many years. A second aircraft carrier, the USS John C. Stennis, has also conducting operations in the western Pacific region recently, according to the U.S. Pacific Fleet.
Capt. Gregory Fenton said the mission was aimed in part at improving relations with Vietnam and ensuring the U.S. had free passage in the South China Sea.
China's military buildup, including the launch of its own carrier last year and rapid development of ballistic missiles and cyber warfare capabilities, could potentially crimp the U.S. forces' freedom to operate in the waters.
The South China sea is claimed by China, and has a large reserve of oil. Other Nation's are claiming parts of the China sea. This is a cauldron of unrest that could escalate into a regional conflict. With Obama at the helm with are like a big toothless and blind old dog - a lot of barking and pissing on things, but really nothing.