Taiwan Military Boosts Rapid Response as China Ramps Up Drills, Says Defence Report

Taiwan said its military can act fast if China launches a sudden attack. The update came in a new defence report sent to lawmakers in Taipei. The report warned that China has increased its drills around the island in recent months. It said the drills could shift to real combat with little warning.

The defence ministry said all units can now move under a decentralised command system. This means troops can respond even if top leaders cannot issue orders. The report followed repeated alerts over rising military pressure from China.

Taiwan Military Readiness Strengthened Amid Rising China Activity

The report said China now holds frequent joint combat patrols. These flights and naval moves take place almost every day around Taiwan. According to Reuters, Taiwan sees this as a “grey zone” tactic designed to stretch its forces. The island must keep jets and ships ready at all times.

Officials said China’s actions have grown each year. The drills involve more ships, more aircraft, and wider areas in the Pacific. Taiwan fears these moves could hide a real attack. The defence ministry said it has set clear steps to raise alert levels fast if drills switch to combat.

The report said units will act on “distributed control” during a sudden strike. This system lets field commanders move without waiting for central orders. The goal is to avoid delays if communication lines are hit.

Defence Minister Wellington Koo will face lawmakers this week. He is expected to explain how the system works and how Taiwan plans to improve early warning tools. China, meanwhile, accused Taiwan President Lai Ching‑te of “hyping” threats for political gain.

How Rising Tensions Shape Regional Strategy

China has trained for a Taiwan assault for years. The ministry said Chinese forces now run more real‑combat drills. Ships sail farther into the Pacific and closer to Australia and New Zealand. These moves show China is testing wider routes for future missions.

Taiwan rejects Beijing’s claims of sovereignty. It says only its people can choose their future. But Beijing says it will not rule out force and calls Taiwan’s defence steps “dangerous”. This has raised concern among allies who fear a crisis could disrupt global trade.

Analysts warn that a sudden strike would affect security across Asia. Air routes, shipping lanes, and key tech production could all face risk. Taiwan said its new response plan aims to limit early damage and keep defence lines active.

Taiwan military officials say the new command setup will help them react first and fast. The plan is meant to protect the island if China raises pressure again. Supporters hope the stronger system will keep the Taiwan military ready at all times.

Info at your fingertips-

Q1: How fast can the Taiwan military respond to an attack?

Officials say units can act at once under a decentralised command. They do not need to wait for top orders. This helps if communication is disrupted.

Q2: Why is China increasing drills near Taiwan?

China sees Taiwan as its territory. The drills send pressure and test Taiwan’s defences. Taiwan says they could mask the start of real combat.

Q3: What did the defence report highlight?

The report said China’s drills have grown in size and frequency. It also said Taiwan now trains for sudden attacks. It warned that drills could move from practice to war quickly.

Q4: How is China reacting to Taiwan’s warning?

China says Taiwan is spreading fear. It accuses Taiwan’s leaders of seeking independence. Chinese officials say they oppose “war hype”.

Q5: Who will review Taiwan’s defence plan?

Lawmakers will question Defence Minister Wellington Koo. He will explain the new response system. He will also review training changes.

Trusted Sources: Reuters, AP News, BBC News