Taiwan’s military spending skyrockets by 80% as China’s threats loom large.
At a Glance
- Taiwan boosts defense budget to a record $19 billion for 2024
- U.S. encourages Taiwan to adopt asymmetric defense strategy
- China exerts military, diplomatic, and economic pressure on Taiwan
- U.S. strengthens alliances in Indo-Pacific to enhance deterrence
- Potential conflict in Taiwan Strait could cost over $2 trillion globally
Taiwan’s Defensive Resolve in the Face of Chinese Aggression
As tensions escalate in the Taiwan Strait, the island nation is taking decisive steps to bolster its defenses against the looming threat of Chinese aggression. Taiwan demonstrated its commitment to strengthening its military capabilities by increasing defense spending by a staggering 80% over the past eight years. This substantial increase reflects the growing urgency to counter China’s expanding military presence in the region.
A senior Taiwanese security official stated that the island nation intends to shore up its own defenses, indicating it intends to protect itself regardless of the incoming US government’s approach.
U.S. Support and Strategic Considerations
The United States plays a crucial role in Taiwan’s defense strategy, despite not officially recognizing Taiwan’s government. The American Institute in Taiwan manages this unique security partnership, which is guided by the Taiwan Relations Act. This delicate balance allows the U.S. to support Taiwan’s defense capabilities while adhering to the One China policy.
Noting the importance of American backing, former Taiwanese president Tsai Ing-wen said, “We must not yield to [Chinese] pressure but should also not advance rashly because of [U.S. support.”
The U.S. Department of Defense has identified two main threats to Taiwan: military danger from China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) and “coercion without violence” aimed at integrating Taiwan into the People’s Republic of China. While the Pentagon believes an amphibious invasion by China is currently beyond the PLA’s capabilities, the U.S. is actively working to strengthen deterrence in the Taiwan Strait.
Debating Defense Strategies
A significant debate surrounds Taiwan’s defense strategy, with the U.S. favoring an asymmetric approach over conventional defense. This strategy focuses on developing capabilities that can effectively counter China’s military advantages while minimizing costs. Taiwan’s Defense Minister, Wellington Koo, has stated that “Relevant needs that align with our operational requirements will be proposed through an existing military exchange mechanism with the United States,” indicating ongoing discussions about potential arms purchases, including F-35 fighter jets.
“Taiwan is a thriving democracy that plays a vital role in the world economy with high technology exports like semiconductors,” Assistant Secretary of Defense for Indo-Pacific Security Affairs Ely Ratner recently told the House Armed Forces Committee.
Global Implications and U.S. Strategy
The potential for conflict in the Taiwan Strait carries severe global consequences. Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III has warned that such a conflict “would be devastating,” potentially resulting in thousands of casualties and over $2 trillion in economic losses worldwide. This stark reality drives U.S. efforts to strengthen alliances and partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region, with significant progress made with Japan, Australia, and the Philippines.
While the U.S. maintains that conflict with China is not inevitable, it continues to invest in military capabilities to maintain effective deterrence.
