Military

Analysis: Defense Ministry Warns of China's Military Expansion

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By Patrick Chen/Lery Hiciano

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Taiwan's defense ministry has delivered three reports to lawmakers, including its closely watched assessment of China's military power. INDSR research fellow Su Tzu-yun says this year's report places greater emphasis on China's amphibious assault capabilities, expanding helicopter fleet and development of uncrewed systems, compared with last year's focus on missile forces. Su argues that although China continues to strengthen its military, Taiwan can concentrate its resources on self-defense. He says the key challenge is monitoring capabilities that support force projection across the Taiwan Strait and ensuring defense investments are directed toward the most relevant threats.

Defense Ministry's China Report

REPORTER:  
Taiwan's defense ministry says that regional security continues to decline amid rising military tensions with China.

A new report warns that China is continuing to strengthen its military, including with exercises that simulate a blockade on Taiwan. The report adds that China has been studying the conflicts in Ukraine and Iran for tactics it can use against Taiwan. The ministry also gave lawmakers a proposed budget for next year and a five-year force restructuring plan. China views Taiwan as its own territory and has never ruled out taking it by force.