WHILE the global spotlight is on various conflicts, China has been pressuring its small neighbor Taiwan – indicating preparations for an invasion.
In the latest episode of The Sun’s Battle Plans Exposed, military intelligence expert Philip Ingram MBE discusses the escalating tensions and outlines how China could potentially invade the island.
In the latest episode of Battle Plans Exposed, Philip Ingram details the implications of a potential Chinese invasion of Taiwan.
Xi Jinping has been steadfast in his belief that Beijing should assert control over Taiwan, showing no hesitation in considering military action to claim the self-governing island.
Ingram notes that Xi has made Taiwan “a central aspect of his vision” for the nation.
Although the two sides have not engaged in direct conflict thus far, Xi has clearly stated that China “reserves the right to take action,” Ingram adds.
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In anticipation of a potential conflict, Taiwan’s military has devised a defensive strategy known as the “porcupine strategy.”
While its army may not match China in firepower, it aims to “make any invasion so challenging, costly, and bloody that it deters China from ever attempting it,” Ingram explains.
But what drives Xi's fixation on Taiwan, located off China's southeast coast?
“Control of the island would fulfill Xi’s reunification goal, eliminate a potential threat near China’s mainland, and create a buffer zone against the US or other adversaries,” Ingram clarifies.
Here are four methods China could use to capture Taiwan with minimal warning.
Naval blockade
One strategy for China would involve suffocating the island with a naval blockade.
Ingram states: “As an island nation, Taiwan is heavily reliant on imports and could be severely impacted by a sustained naval blockade.”
China frequently conducts military exercises around the island, simulating a blockade.
Ingram explains: “This would entail China establishing a naval blockade within a 12-mile zone surrounding Taiwan, supported by aerial operations from the mainland.”
“It would challenge US resolve, and as the standoff persists, it would lead to economic instability in Taiwan due to restricted imports and exports.”
Taiwan’s defense force – The Republic of China Armed Forces – has specifically trained its navy to counter this threat.
Ingram notes: “The Navy’s mission is to confront the People’s Liberation Army Navy in the strait, prevent a blockade, and deploy sea mines to make invasion routes perilous.”
Seize outlying islands
Perhaps the most indirect approach for China would be to capture one or more of Taiwan’s outlying islands.
Taiwan administers an archipelago known as the Kinmen Islands, which at certain points are merely two kilometers from mainland China.
Ingram observes: “China could seize these islands and then gauge the West’s response.”
Taiwanese military personnel conduct artillery drills during military exercises.
Taiwanese soldiers participating in combat drills for President Lai Ching-te’s inspection.
The primary concern for Xi is that the United States might intervene to defend Taiwan – a very real possibility.
However, capturing a few small islands just kilometers offshore is much less likely to provoke a strong international reaction
