I prefer a J1 build of trn / inf without an IC. I think it actually allows you to get more onto asia sooner than a J1 IC does, as well as giving you more flexibility with what you can do with the build. I think there are some old posts around here about this build…
Hamar - i liked your thinking. Still, i have to agree w/ SSG in that part of your strategy is a little rough.
Also if i’m Japan and building an IC on MAN (which i rarely do anymore), chances are i control enough of the board to move my Japan AA to the mainland.