Taiwan has deployed its Mirage 2000s in response to Chinese military exercises, demonstrating its air defense capabilities despite rising tensions.

In brief

Taiwan has deployed its Mirage 2000 and F-16 aircraft in response to Chinese military exercises around the island. The maneuvers are intended to demonstrate China’s ability to control the region and deter foreign intervention. Taiwan, despite having a smaller air fleet made up of older Western aircraft, is preparing new generations of aircraft to bolster its defense efforts.

Background and Deployment of Taiwan’s Air Force

In response to China’s large-scale military exercises around the island, Taiwan has launched its Mirage 2000 and F-16 fighters. These deployments are designed to patrol Taiwanese airspace and demonstrate the country’s defense capability. The Taiwanese Ministry of Defense has released images of armed F-16s patrolling the skies and photos of nearby Chinese ships, although the precise dates of these photos are unclear.

According to reports, 49 Chinese military aircraft were detected approaching up to 74 km from Keelung, a major naval base in northern Taiwan. This proximity necessitated increased vigilance on the part of Taiwan’s air defense forces.

Taiwan’s Reaction and Preparedness Capabilities

Air defense forces and response capabilities Taiwan has a strong air defense force.

Taiwan has a relatively small air force compared with China, with around 385 fighters in service. These include around 140 F-16s, 54 Mirage 2000s, 129 AIDC F-CK-1s and 62 Northrop F-5s. F-16s have been in service since 1997, and the fleet is currently being upgraded to the F-16V model, incorporating structural improvements, advanced avionics and long-range reconnaissance capabilities.

The F-16V modernization program was completed in February 2024, strengthening Taiwan’s air defense capabilities with enhanced stealth performance and beyond visual range (BVR) operations.

Consequences of the Chinese Military Exercises

Geopolitical tensions and show of force

Chinese military exercises aim to demonstrate China’s ability to control the region and prevent the involvement of foreign forces. This show of force comes in response to the election of Taiwan’s new president, Lai Ching-te, considered a “separatist” by Beijing. The exercises included simulated missile strikes and real-life tests, illustrating China’s ability to carry out coordinated attacks.

The two-day exercises involved bombers and live missile tests, aimed at “taking total control” of areas west of the first island chain, including Taiwan.

Taiwan’s Defense Challenges and Capabilities

Sourcing problems and local development

Due to the difficulty of purchasing modern aircraft because of strained relations with China, Taiwan has been forced to develop its own systems. For example, the Taiwanese navy still uses American submarines from the Second World War. Frustrated by the lack of foreign deliveries, Taiwan launched its first indigenous submarine in 2024.

This indigenous submarine marks a milestone for the Taiwanese navy, demonstrating its ability to develop advanced defense systems despite international constraints.

Strategic and Economic Consequences

Impact on regional stability

China’s military exercises around Taiwan are exacerbating tensions in the Asia-Pacific region. China’s show of force is aimed at deterring foreign intervention and reaffirming its territorial claims over Taiwan. At the same time, Taiwan continues to strengthen its defense capabilities, despite economic and logistical constraints.

The high cost of maintaining and modernizing Taiwan’s air fleet, coupled with the challenges of procuring military equipment, places significant pressure on the country’s defense budget.

Relations with the United States

Diplomatic support and constraints

Despite the absence of formal diplomatic relations since the 1970s, the United States is legally obliged to provide Taiwan with the means to defend itself. This special relationship involves material support and strategic cooperation, albeit limited by diplomatic sensitivities with China.

The United States has supplied Taiwan with a variety of military equipment, including F-16s and defense technologies, contributing to the island’s ability to resist Chinese military pressure.

Future Developments and Defense Strategies

Ongoing planning and modernization

Taiwan is actively developing a new generation of fighter jets to replace its older aircraft and improve its defense capabilities. This project is progressing faster than expected, indicating a strong commitment to maintaining robust air defense in the face of growing threats.

The development of new Taiwanese fighter jets should reinforce the existing fleet, providing advanced defense capabilities and reducing dependence on foreign imports.

Taiwan’s response to Chinese military exercises highlights the complexity of geopolitical tensions in the region. Despite having a smaller and older air fleet, Taiwan continues to strengthen its defense capabilities through modernization and indigenous developments. This situation illustrates the challenges and strategies adopted by Taiwan to ensure its security in the face of a growing military threat from China.

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