University Open House, Airsoft Competition Boost Military Awareness
National Defense University's Taipei campus has held an open house featuring military displays and an airsoft shooting contest aimed at building military awareness and training practical skills amid China's threats to take Taiwan by force.
National Defense Open House Highlights Taiwan's Defense Awareness
REPORTER:
The crowd roars as a drone running an obstacle course finishes off its last target with a bang.
REPORTER:
It’s open house day at National Defense University, and lots of people, some families with children, are here for a rare up-close look at Taiwan’s military hardware.
REPORTER:
But people of military age are here, too, practicing their aim and coordination. This is the defense ministry’s first-ever airsoft shooting competition, with teams of four trying to outdo each other in simulated combat missions.
Ye Chih-hung (PARTICIPANT):
Although participants at this event are mainly reservists it's also an opportunity for the public to view equipment and watch the competition. I think this helps promote national defense by showing people that defense is actually closely connected to everyday life rather than just being about cold equipment and the stereotypical image of soldiers.
REPORTER:
This isn’t a game, though. China claims Taiwan and has threatened to take it by force. The military is using events like this to build awareness of defense—including some practical knowledge. It’s something some in the shooting competition appreciate.
He Song-wei (PARTICIPANT):
When it comes to national defense it does not necessarily mean that everyone has to pick up a gun and go to the front line. Rather, it means that everyone should know what they need to do at every moment and at every stage. Specifically for airsoft shooting it allows people who are interested in firearms to gain a better understanding of firearm mechanics and operations.
REPORTER:
From young people learning about drones.
REPORTER:
To adults gathering round to get a sense of what Taiwan’s helicopters can do, events like this also rally people around the military.
Huang Po-tsang (MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY WORKER):
I strongly support defense autonomy. In the long run, it will be more beneficial for our country's economy and talent development.
REPORTER:
And, the defense ministry hopes, the experience will also build social resilience in the face of a serious threat.
Scott Huang and John Van Trieste for TaiwanPlus.
