Center for Maritime Strategy – In his confirmation hearing, the current holder of that office, Elbridge Colby, made a strong case for his so-called “strategy of denial” that aims to make clear to the People’s Republic of China (PRC) that the United States will not allow it to seize Taiwan or another Asian ally by force. What remained unclear was his vision for the role of sea power in carrying out that strategy. However, a careful review of his book, other writings, and comments made in interviews reveals that sea power, as understood by navalists, does not factor heavily in Colby’s thinking. Indeed, in many respects he seems rather dismissive of the concept.