The Take Why is Taiwan training for war with China?
Jul 18, 2025
William Yang, a Senior Analyst at the International Crisis Group, delves into Taiwan's intense military drills simulating a potential Chinese invasion. He discusses the psychological impact on Taiwanese citizens living under constant military readiness and the integration of defense exercises into everyday settings. Yang highlights the lessons learned from urban warfare in Ukraine and emphasizes the urgency of bolstering Taiwan's defense capabilities amid rising tensions with China. The episode captures the complexity of public sentiment around military preparedness and national security.
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Urban War Drill Focus
- Taiwan's biggest military drills simulate realistic urban combat inside cities, not just coastal defense.
- Drills include deployment through metros and everyday public places to immerse citizens in invasion scenarios.
Supermarket Air Raid Drill
- A drill in Taipei supermarkets involved shoppers hiding in basements as air raid sirens sounded.
- Store employees practiced first aid, simulating civilian readiness in case of attack.
Drills Reflect New Threats
- Taiwan expanded drills to urban centers due to China's advancing military ability to strike inside cities.
- Urban drills also prepare and raise civilian awareness for immediate response, inspired by Ukraine's experience.