Taiwan ramps up combat readiness, braces for ‘war of endurance’ amid China threat

Taiwan’s military is strengthening its combat readiness in response to escalating threats from China, according to Defence Minister Wellington Koo. Citing the need to prepare for a potential “war of endurance,” he said Taiwan must stockpile military supplies and upgrade capabilities in case of multiple assaults by Beijing.

President Lai Ching-te said the armed forces are undergoing a major transformation to confront China’s growing hostility. Training programmes have been updated for both conscripts and senior officers, with a focus on new military assets and asymmetric warfare strategies, including the deployment of drones, air defence systems, and mobile radar.

“As we are situated on an island, we need to stockpile military supplies in case China launches multiple assaults. We may even need to prepare for a war of endurance,” he stated, according to the Focus Taiwan report.

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He emphasised that the objective is to “prepare for war,” insisting that readiness is crucial for maintaining a strong deterrent, as reported by Focus Taiwan.

As part of these reforms, Taiwan extended its compulsory military service to one year from January 2024. Koo noted that troop planning and positioning are under review, especially with the Chinese People’s Liberation Army frequently conducting military exercises near Taiwan.

The annual Han Kuang military drills will be held from July 9 to 18 this year—longer than last year’s, which were shortened by a typhoon. The goal is to identify and address operational weaknesses. A broader review of troop numbers and deployments is also scheduled for later in the year.

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Beijing views Taiwan as part of its territory and has not ruled out using force to bring it under its control. Analysts said the increased military activity reflects China’s ongoing efforts to normalise its military posture around Taiwan.