TAIPEI (TVBS News) — An Avenger Air Defense System was spotted in New Taipei City's Bali District as Taiwan's military prepares for the 39th edition of the Han Kuang exercises.
This year, Taipei Harbor remains the focus of the military drills as it would serve as the first line of defense in the event of an attack.
While civilians go about their daily lives, soldiers can be seen near Taipei Harbor's entrance under a fortification. Tactical vehicles were also brought out as the military rehearsed for the official drills at the end of July.
As the armed forces head into the pillbox, M60A3 tanks can be seen at the ready, displaying a solid front. However, military experts emphasize that firepower remains integral in securing the frontlines.
The former director of the Fu Hsing Kang College, Hu Jui-chou, explained, "The primary issue revolves around firepower."
"In modern warfare, if you rely solely on manpower, guns, or small arms, without the ability to match the enemy forces' firepower, the chances of effectively preventing their invasion of the coast become highly improbable."
Last year's Han Kuang exercise witnessed the military setting up coastal defenses from the Tamsui River to the greater Taipei area. However, this year, the defense line has been extended to Taoyuan Airport, covering a larger area.
Even so, experts caution that narrowing the operational space for enemy forces in the event of an invasion would be of utmost importance.
Military expert Eric Shih pointed out that using fixed positions or trenches to deploy troops will make things difficult for an attacking army. "They would need to overcome and breach these fortified positions," he said, adding that the effort would incur substantial costs to enemy forces.
Amid rising cross-strait tensions, many have speculated that Taiwan is adjusting its defense strategies after the Russia-Ukraine war.
Although Taiwan and Ukraine focus on utilizing trenches, differences in geographical positions and other factors could result in a stronger deterrent against enemy forces seeking to invade Taiwan.
