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More conscripts to outlying islands possible: Taiwan MND
Taiwan Defense Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng announced that the nation’s mandatory military service may require some conscripts to serve on outlying islands. Chiu clarified that not all outlying islands have sufficient military resources, which may result in individuals being assigned there. During a special report by the Legislative Yuan’s Foreign and National Defense Committee, Chiu emphasized the need for firearms to be used silently to avoid detection amidst cross-strait tensions. He also addressed the possibility of extending the service period for mandatory service, indicating that this would require careful consideration and that willing and qualified individuals might serve in specific combat units. Chiu noted that obliging recruitment for combat units is a multidimensional process involving several steps and insurance issues. The military will continue to monitor different scenarios and work towards the most efficient conscription system.2023/10/30 14:00 -
Reviving ROTC: Taiwan’s new approach to military recruitment
Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense (MND) has revived the ROTC program to enhance its military capabilities amid growing cross-strait tensions. Students receive full government subsidies, with five years of army service upon graduation. This development aims to address the pressing need for more military personnel.2023/10/19 02:00 -
National Security Council refutes DPP’s role in tensions
National Security Council Secretary-General Wellington Koo refutes claims that the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) is responsible for escalating tensions in Taiwan. Koo emphasizes that the real risk comes from mainland China’s refusal to abandon its military threat towards Taiwan.2023/10/17 15:39 -
Defense minister concerned over unusual PLA activities
Taiwan’s Defense Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng expresses concern over recent unusual PLA activities. The country remains vigilant amid rising tensions in the region. #TaiwanMilitary #PLA #CrossStrait2023/09/22 21:47 -
Ex-US defense secretary: Taiwan should boost defense budget
Rising cross-strait tensions have become a concern for many democracies around the world. As China increases its military drills surrounding Taiwan, former U.S. Defense Secretary Mark Esper advises Taiwan to boost its defense budget to enhance asymmetric warfare capabilities.2023/08/25 17:48 -
Taiwan mulls extending Dassault Mirage fighter jets’ service
Taiwan’s Air Force weighs the possibility of extending the service life of Mirage 2000 fighter jets by 20 years. Experts debate the need for longevity vs. modernization as the nation navigates cross-strait tensions. Learn more about the Mirage 2000 extension debate.2023/08/14 17:23 -
Experts ponder Taiwan’s optimal approach to China
Amid soaring cross-strait tensions and the approaching Han Kuang exercises, TVBS Meeting Room host Wenchi Yu invited former U.S. Secretary of State Mark Esper and Taiwan Foreign Minister Joseph Wu to discuss the best approach for the country: bolstering Taiwan’s military defenses or seeking more engagement with China.2023/07/18 18:52 -
Taiwan reinstates 1-year conscription amid soaring tensions
Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen announced during a press conference on Tuesday (Dec. 27) that after 2 years of deliberation, Taiwan will reinstate the one-year military service starting in 2024.2022/12/28 17:21 -
Air Force pilot changes tone with PRC planes in Taiwan ADIZ
Taiwan Air Force on Wednesday (Nov. 9) requested that PRC planes leave its air defense zone with a slightly different tone than usual, military experts reported.2022/11/10 18:38 -
U.S. military upgrades defense systems in Asia-Pacific
Cross strait tensions have been on the rise in recent years. Now, with North Korea firing off missiles near Japan, the U.S. is stepping up to upgrade the defense in Asia-Pacific areas.2022/11/10 18:16