The US forces may be good, but since WW2 that has not translated into winning.
In contrast, the Chinese seem to be very good at winning by means of bloodless engagements that advance China's interests.
Golder's post above (1230) is a case in point, while attention is focused on the SCS build up, China develops another client relationship.
I'd expect Taiwan to get similar treatment. There are pragmatic governments in China and Taiwan. Imho they are just haggling about the price.