07 May '25

Taiwan's Defense: Key Ports and the Looming Threat

Strategic Focus on Ports as Potential Targets in a Cross-Strait Conflict

A recent analysis by the Australian Strategic Policy Institute (ASPI), featuring commentary from U.S. military expert David Axe, highlights a critical aspect of potential cross-strait conflict scenarios: the strategic importance of Taiwan's ports. The report suggests that if China were to initiate a military campaign against Taiwan, the focus would likely be on seizing key port facilities rather than solely attempting beach landings.

The article specifically cites the 2021 research, identifying Taichung Port, Kaohsiung Port, Mailiao Port, Taipei Port, and Anping Port as primary potential targets for the People's Liberation Army (PLA). Given this assessment, the report indicates that the Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense's (國防部) primary defense strategy should revolve around the effective deployment of naval mines. The timing of such deployments would be crucial, ideally executed just before the commencement of hostilities.

The article raises questions regarding the level of understanding and preparedness within Taiwan's leadership regarding this particular strategic vulnerability.

Axe references the 2021 study by Ian Easton from the Project 2049 Institute, which argues that the PLA's limited infrastructure for unloading large-scale transport ships, combined with the inherent vulnerability of beach landings, makes securing ports a strategic imperative. The study notes that even the unveiling of new landing craft this year may not dramatically improve the PLA's capacity to land on Taiwan's fourteen suitable beaches.

Other Versions

Justice • 08 Apr '25

A life in Taiwan

Taiwan's Defense: Key Ports and the Looming Threat

Strategic Focus on Ports as Potential Targets in a Cross-Strait Conflict

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