I wouldn't talk of a conflict with China as inevitable. Competition is fine but no one in their right mind should wish for military conflict with China, it would be a tragedy for humanity.
while China invading Taiwan is not a guarantee, it is certainly highly probable. this risk should be taken into account by the us government
Chinas activities in the South China Sea, the fact they openly say they will integrate Taiwan, by force if necessary and unemployment being 20-30% for young people are just a few red flags.