Taiwan Flexes Naval Muscles Amid Rising Tensions with China

Taiwan Showcases Naval Defenses Amid Rising Tensions with China

Taiwan conducted a naval exercise on Thursday, showcasing its sea defenses against a potential Chinese attack. This demonstration comes amidst heightened tensions with Beijing, as part of a multi-layered strategy to deter an invasion from the mainland.

The exercise, held near Kaohsiung, Taiwan's largest port, featured the island's Kuang Hua VI fast attack missile boats and Tuo Chiang-class corvettes. These vessels play a crucial role in defending the island, particularly Kaohsiung, a vital hub for international trade and a potential resupply point for Chinese forces in the event of an invasion.

The Kuang Hua VI boats, equipped with indigenously developed Hsiung Feng II anti-ship missiles, displayed their ability to intercept enemy ships approaching the 44-kilometer (24-nautical mile) limit of Taiwan's contiguous zone. This zone allows governments to take defensive action against potential threats.

China's ongoing military activity in nearby waters has prompted Taiwan to scramble jets, activate missile systems, and dispatch warships. Taiwan has demanded that China cease these activities, which it believes undermine peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and disrupt international shipping and trade.

Taiwan's mountainous terrain and relatively flexible defense strategy aim to prevent Chinese troops from crossing the strait. Landing sites on Taiwan's west coast facing China are limited, forcing Beijing to focus on the east coast.

Hsiao Shun-ming, captain of a Tuo Chiang-class corvette, emphasized that despite its smaller size, the ship possesses formidable power against larger Chinese vessels. The Tuo Chiang's catamaran design provides high speeds and considerable stealth capabilities.

Taiwan has actively revitalized its domestic defense industry in recent years, though it still relies heavily on U.S. technology for fighter jets, missiles, tanks, and detection equipment. U.S. law mandates that threats to Taiwan be considered "grave concerns," and American and allied forces are expected to play a significant role in any potential conflict.

The exercise served as a demonstration of Taiwan's commitment to asymmetric warfare and self-reliance in defense. "We are always ready to respond quickly and can handle any kind of maritime situation," stated Rear Admiral Chen Ming-feng, commander of the navy's 192nd Fleet specializing in mine detection.

China's refusal to communicate with Taiwan's pro-independence governments since 2016 has fueled concerns in Washington and elsewhere that Beijing might be considering military action. China claims Taiwan as its territory and intends to bring it under its control, by force if necessary. However, most Taiwanese favor maintaining their de facto independence and democratic status.