The Russian invasion of Ukraine has caused Taiwan to take a closer look at how it will defend itself in case of a Chinese attack on the country. According to The Wall Street Journal, the Russian-Ukraine war has created a new discussion over weapons, military tactics, and possible military conscription. Currently, the Ministry of Defense is debating whether or not to extend the four-month military service up to one year.
Watching Ukraine, Taiwanese lawmakers and political talk shows have been debating what types of guerrilla tactics and weapons are most effective for smaller militaries facing oversized threats. Politicians and defense experts have suggested stockpiling attack drones, as these weapons were able to slow Russia's advance on the Ukraine capital. The importance of stockpiling enough weapons was also highlighted during the Russian-Ukraine war which would be harder for Taiwan as an island.
The defense committee has approved more anti-aircraft training with Javelin anti-tank missiles and Stinger anti-aircraft missiles in case of an attack from China. The National Chung-Shang Institute of Science and Technology has also stated that it plans to more than double annual missile production along with Taiwanese-made drones that self-destruct when they strike military targets. While a Chinese invasion of Taiwan is not imminent, Beijing has vowed to bring the country under its control by force if necessary.
While looking to the Russian-Ukraine war as a smart move to build up a military defense in supplies tactics needed, the situations remain drastically different. Firstly, Taiwan is much smaller than Ukraine, in both land and population. I also believe that the Chinese military would be a bigger threat to deal with as China has more active members with a heavier focus on the navy versus land forces.
https://www.taiwannews.com.tw/en/news/4490841
By: Genevieve Weiss
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