The People’s Republic of China has consistently claimed sovereignty over Taiwan and desires reunification. Until recently, however, the PRC did not have the means or the will to force reunification. The rejuvenation and strengthening of the People’s Liberation Army in the twenty-first century increase the possibility of forced reunification after a military invasion.
This article investigates capabilities Taiwan should prioritize to repel such an invasion. Based on an analysis of three stages of a hypothetical PRC invasion (blockade and bombing, amphibious invasion, and island combat operations), Taiwan should maximize its ability to withstand and repel the amphibious invasion phase of any operation by prioritizing mines and minelayers, antiship missiles, and mobile long-range artillery systems.
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Website: | Visit Publisher Website |
Publisher: | Journal of Indo-Pacific Affairs |
Published: | June 3, 2021 |
License: | Public Domain |