China isn't planning on a nuclear war, they are planning on an incrementally conventional one. Similar to Russia, only successful. Starting with Tiawan, and then more of the areas in the south China seas, from there, who knows.

We've grossly underestimated their recent investments into aviation and our (current) superiority. We'll probably always have an edge in training and experience, but....

...that only goes so far when you end up outpaced on technology and you're outnumbered 12 to 1, and your own ROE handcuffs you while theirs does not.

What will a war with China look like?

Them easily taking over neighbors while we do... nothing...