Taiwan launched a three-day military exercise amid concerns over possible defence budget cuts due to legislative disputes between the two major political parties.
Troops arrived in armoured personnel carriers and tanks at the Hsinchu base, with Apache and S-70 helicopters flying in the air. Army Captain Chuang Yuan-cheng of the 542 Armoured Brigade in Hsinchu county said that advanced communications allowed synchronisation of ground and airborne fire.
On Wednesday, the army also showcases its Patriot III anti-missile system. On Thursday, anti-submarine exercises will take place off Taiwan’s largest port Kaohsiung.
The annual exercise, held ahead of the Lunar New Year, is designed to reassure Taiwanese residents of the island’s ability to resist Chinese pressure and expedite recruitment. Taipei also extended mandatory military service to one year.
However, the government warned that new amendments to the law under consideration could result in a 28% cut in the defence budget. The move could reduce the readiness of allies to assist Taiwan in the event of an armed confrontation against China, warned National Security Council Secretary-General Joseph Wu.
Currently, Taiwan spends about $20 billion annually on the military, equivalent to 2.4% of its GDP.
China condemned US arms sales to Taiwan, saying reunification with the island was inevitable. In addition to periodic military exercises near the island, Beijing also blacklisted companies and executives involved in the production and sale of military equipment.
