In The United States, China and Southeast Asian Security, Wayne Bert examines the potential effects of of a rising China and its relations with the United States on security in the region. If China's economy continues to grow rapidly and its efforts to increase air and sea power are successful, China may be able to successfully challenge US influence in East and Southeast Asia. Potential for conflict between the US and China still exists both over Chinese claims to the Spratly Islands and the aftermath of contention over Taiwan. However, the growing commitment of Southeast Asia to economic development and the expansion of regional institutions has increased the potential for a peaceful power transition. Whether the outcome is peaceful or turbulent will depend upon the policies of both the US and China, but if conflict in Southeast Asia is avoided during this transition a model for the rest of East Asia may develop.