Military Balance and Arms Sales

Documents

Defense Intelligence Agency Taiwan Air Defense Assessment, Mar. 2011

Quadrennial Defense Review 2009

Polls

Survey on President Ma Ying-jeou’s Approval Rating and Removal of Missiles Deployed by China (GVSRC, Oct. 28, 2010) 38.2 percent of the interviewed were satisfied with Ma’s performance; 45.3 percent said ECFA was much more important than removal of the missiles aimed at Taiwan.

Survey on Taiwan Relations Act, Arms Procurement, Participation in WHA, and President Ma’s Approval Rating (GVSRC, Apr. 24, 2009) 48.3% of Taiwanese say the government should procure more weapons to gain more ground with China; meanwhile, 32.8% of Taiwanese approve of President Ma’s performance.

Taiwan Places US$921m Order for PAC-3 Missiles
(Taipei Times, Feb. 2, 2012) Taiwan has placed a US$921 million order for Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) missiles as part of its military program to strengthen its air defense capabilities, a contract notification said.

Navy to Acquire ‘Listening Sticks’
(Taipei Times, Jan. 30, 2012) The Taiwanese Navy is purchasing hundreds of specialized sonobuoys from the US to augment its anti-submarine warfare capabilities, a US Department of Defense notice said.

National Defense Consists of More Than Military: Ma
(CNA, Jan. 19, 2012) President Ma said matters such as improvements in relations between Taiwan and China, trade and investment, and cultural and educational exchanges can all be seen as “implicit tactics in national defense.”

Compulsory Military Service Cut Further
(Taipei Times, Dec. 31, 2011) The Ministry of National Defense announced it would implement an all-volunteer military system in 2013.

Air Force Upgrading ‘Skyguard’ System
(Taipei Times, Dec. 28, 2011) Taiwan’s ability to defend itself against Chinese aircraft and missile attacks is expected to receive a shot in the arm following the scheduled completion next year of an upgrade program for its “Skyguard” short-range air defense system.

Taiwan Still a Top Buyer of US Arms
(Taipei Times, Dec. 22, 2011) A new report from the US Congressional Research Service shows that despite a sale of F-16C/D aircraft being turned down this year, Taiwan remains one of the US’ four major arms buyers.

Sale of Additional PAC-3 Units to Taiwan Proceeds
(Taipei Times, Dec. 20, 2011) Raytheon has signed a US$685.7 million Foreign Military Sales contract to provide two additional new fire units of the combat-proven Patriot Air and Missile Defense System for Taiwan, the company announced.

NSB to Create National Intelligence Officers
(China Post, Dec. 10, 2011) An amendment to the Organic Act for National Security Bureau passed through the legislature, allows the country's top intelligence agency to establish a new “national intelligence officer” system in an effort to expand its overseas operational capabilities.

Survey Citing Youth’s Refusal to Flight Is a ‘Non-issue’: MND
(China Post, Nov. 30, 2011) The Ministry of National Defense reacted strongly over a recently released survey which shows that over 40 percent of students in secondary level said they would not defend the country if a war breaks out.

Cornyn Threatens Hold on Lippert Nomination Over Taiwan Arms Sales (The Cable, Nov. 18, 2011) Sen. John Cornyn (R-TX) threatened today to place a hold on the nomination of President Barack Obama's confidant Mark Lippert, who has been nominated as the Pentagon's top official for Asia.

Military Prepares to Start Drill on Pingtung Highway
(CNA, Nov. 15, 2011) Taiwan's armed forces staged a rehearsal for a military drill that will be held for the first time on the Chia Tung Highway Strip in southern Taiwan as part of joint combat training.

Defense Official Wants PRC ‘Peace Move’
(CNA, Nov. 12, 2011) China should renounce the use of force against Taiwan to show goodwill and pave the way for a possible peace accord or confidence-building measures across the Taiwan Strait, a Taiwanese official visiting Washington said.

First Cross-Branch Live-Fire Drill in Two Decades to Be Held Next Week (China Post, Nov. 10, 2011) The first ever cross-military branches live-fire exercise in more than two decades, featuring a mock confrontation between Army and Marine troops, is scheduled to be held next week, Taiwan's military announced.

Arms Deliveries to Taiwan Are Lagging: US Draft Study
(Reuters, Nov. 6, 2011) The transfer of U.S. arms to Taiwan, the chief barrier to better U.S.-China ties, is moving at a snail's pace, at least for several major weapons systems, a draft report to the U.S. Congress showed.

China Arms Buildup Hurts Prospects for Peace: US
(CNA, Oct. 28, 2011) China's growing military power lowers the likelihood of a peaceful resolution to the tensions across the Taiwan Strait, according to a draft report by the U.S.-China Economic and Security Review Commission.

Panetta’s Praise of PRC Raises Concern
(Taipei Times, Oct. 27, 2011) A US lawmaker is mulling a letter to the defense secretary amid concern that Washington might have consulted China before deciding to sell arms to Taiwan.

Panetta Praises China on Taiwan Arms Reaction
(AP, Oct. 24, 2011) U.S. Defense Secretary Leon Panetta is praising China for what he calls its "professional and diplomatic" response to the U.S. announcement last month of a nearly $6 billion arms sale to Taiwan.

Kurt Campbell Faces Heat in Beijing
(Taipei Times, Oct. 12, 2011) US arms sales to Taiwan were one of the main topics raised by China during a visit to Beijing by US Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Kurt Campbell.

Taiwan Spending on US Lobbyists to Push F-16C/D Sale By William Lowther (Taipei Times, Oct. 13, 2011) Taipei has employed nine different lobbying companies and spent more than US$1 million so far this year in an attempt to persuade Washington to sell it F-16C/D aircraft, according to The Hill.

Taiwan Jet Deal Aids Ally without Provoking Rival China: View
(Bloomberg, Oct. 11, 2011) If Taiwan can prove that the wear and tear on its fighter jets has rendered too many of them obsolete or unsafe, the Obama administration should reconsider selling the newer aircraft. Placating China at the expense of an ally’s ability to defend itself isn’t a trade-off worth making.

Local UAVs to be Commissioned Next Year: Report
(CNA, Oct. 5, 2011) Locally developed unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) will be commissioned early next year as part of the military’s efforts to build up asymmetric/innovative defense capabilities, local media reported.

U.S. Says Mulling Further Taiwan Arms Sales
(Reuters, Oct. 4, 2011) The Obama administration is weighing fresh arms sales to Taiwan as part of a sweeping effort to deter any Chinese attack on the self-ruled island that Beijing claims as its own, administration officials told Congress.

Pentagon Report Backs US Refusal to Sell F-16 Jets
(Taipei Times, Oct. 2, 2011) The report justifies US President Barack Obama’s decision not to sell advanced F-16C/D jets to Taipei on the grounds that the planes and the runways from which they would operate could not survive an initial missile attack from China.

US-Taiwan Arms Deal to Impact Exchanges: China
(AFP, Sep. 29, 2011) Beijing said Washington's decision to upgrade Taiwan's F-16 fighters would damage military ties between the United States and China, impacting military exchanges and high-level visits.

US Secretary of State Claims Arms Sales to Taiwan Help Preserve Cross-Strait Stability (CNA, Sep. 28, 2011) U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton defended her country's arms sales to Taiwan in the face of strong protests from Beijing, saying the policy is helpful to preserving cross-strait peace and stability.

China Foreign Minister Warns Clinton on F-16 Deal
(Reuters, Sep. 27, 2011) China’s foreign minister urged the United States to reconsider its decision to upgrade Taiwan’s F-16 jet fighter fleet, saying it could harm ties between Washington and Beijing.

Cross-Strait Relations Unaffected: Ma
(Taipei Times, Sep. 26, 2011) The US arms package for Taiwan announced by Washington last week did not jeopardize cross-strait relations, President Ma Ying-jeou said, promising to maintain proper defensive capabilities while promoting peace across the Taiwan Strait.

F-16C/Ds Left Out of Arms Deal: AIT
(CNA, Sep. 22, 2011) The quantity and composition of weapons to be sold by the United States to Taiwan in 2011 will not fall below the levels of previous years, American Institute in Taiwan Chairman Raymond Burghardt said.

MOFA, MND ‘Appreciate’ Arms Sale Despite Lack of New Fighters
(China Post, Sep. 22, 2011) The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of National Defense jointly confirmed that the United States government has rejected Taiwan's proposal to buy 66 new and more advanced F-16C/Ds.

China Warns US Over Taiwan Arms Sales
(Telegraph, Sep. 22, 2011) China’s top newspaper has warned the United States that it will pay for selling arms to Taiwan through less cooperation from Beijing, continuing a drumbeat of angry words that appears likely to unsettle, yet not derail, relations with Washington.

Taiwan Has Asymmetric Strategy: Yang
(Taipei Times, Sep. 21, 2011) Taiwan is developing “asymmetrical strategies” utilizing unconventional capabilities to counter China’s military buildup, Deputy Minister of National Defense Andrew Yang said.

China Criticizes US Deal to Upgrade Taiwan F-16s
(AP, Sep. 19, 2011) China expressed its opposition to reports that the United States has decided to upgrade Taiwan's existing fleet of F-16 fighter jets, even though it apparently rejected the island's bid for a more advanced version of the plane.

Deputy Speaker Doesn’t Expect F-16 Sale
(AP, Sep. 14, 2011) A close ally of President Ma Ying-jeou said he expects the US will agree only to upgrade the nation’s existing fleet of F-16 jets and not sell Taipei new ones.

Two MND Jets Crash in Yilan Mountains
(China Post, Sep. 14, 2011) Two aircraft crashed in the mountains of Yilan County around 7:48 p.m., setting the peaks aflame upon impact near the 116.4-kilometer mark of Suhua Highway, local fishermen in the area reported.

Ministry Mum on HF-2Es on Penghu
(Taipei Times, Sep. 14, 2011) Taiwan’s military could deploy surface-to-surface missiles on the Penghu Islands as part of efforts to mount a more credible deterrent capability against China, budgetary documents submitted earlier this month say.

Senators: Selling F-16s to Taiwan Equals Jobs
(Wall Street Journal, Sep. 12, 2011) Sens. John Cornyn and Robert Menendez introduced a bill–the Taiwan Airpower Modernization Act–that would require the Obama administration to sell Taiwan 66 new F-16C/D multi-role fighter jets.

China Firmly Opposes US Sales of F-16s to Taiwan
(Global Times, Sep. 9, 2011) Beijing should send out a clear signal that if the United States sells F-16 aircraft to Taiwan, China will make its most intense response ever, and China-U.S. relations will suffer severe damage.

New Missiles Being Developed: Official
(AFP, Sep. 7, 2011) Taiwan is expected to mass produce a potent new missile system designed to nip a Chinese invasion in the bud by striking airfields and harbors on the mainland, a lawmaker said.

MND Submits Acquisition Budget Plan to Legislature
(Taipei Times, Sep. 2, 2011) The MND budget for the next fiscal year shows that a total of NT$15 billion (US$518 million) out of NT$86.6 billion would be allocated for countermeasure weapons systems, the highest level since 2000.

Ministry Warns of China War Option
(Taipei Times, Sep. 1, 2011) Though chances of an armed conflict in the Taiwan Strait appear to have diminished for the time being, the Chinese government has never changed its mindset of achieving “unification,” by force if necessary, nor lowered its guard toward the Taiwanese military, the Ministry of National Defense said in a report.

Taiwan Must Have ‘Strike Back’ Capability: US Report
(Taipei Times, Sep. 1, 2011) The Asian Alliances in the 21st Century report, released by the Washington-based think tank Project 2049 Institute, argues that Taiwan must have “some means of hitting back against Chinese military targets.”

China Still a Threat, Former Official Says
(Taipei Times, Aug. 27, 2011) Despite showing goodwill and friendliness in its economic and cultural exchanges with Taiwan, China has never ceased its military exercises simulating attacks on the nation, former deputy defense minister Lin Chong-pin said.

US Senator Proposes Back-Door F-16 Sale to Taiwan
(VOA, Aug. 23, 2011) A U.S. senator says the American Congress may try to push through a sale of advanced F-16 jet fighters to Taiwan even if the Obama administration decides against the sale.

Jet Deals to Keep State-Owned Firm Busy
(Taipei Times, Aug.13, 2011) State-owned AIDC is facing promising prospects for the coming years, with an advanced trainer program in the works and the likelihood of a major role in a possible F-16A/B upgrade project.

F-16s Pivotal for Taiwan’s Future: Yang
(Taipei Times, Aug. 9, 2011) If Taiwan does not get the F-16C/D aircraft it seeks from the US to replace its aging fleet, Taipei will lose its leverage and face immediate challenges in fulfilling its responsibilities of preserving peace and stability in Asia, Deputy Minister of National Defense Andrew Yang told a defense magazine in an interview published.

Biden Not to Discuss with China Arms Sales to Taiwan: Minister
(CNA, Aug. 8, 2011) U.S. Vice President Joe Biden will not touch on any topics related with arms sales to Taiwan during his upcoming visit to China, Foreign Minister Timothy Yang said.

US Governor Lobbies for Sale of F-16’s to Taiwan
(CNA, Aug. 7, 2011) Citing his state's dismal unemployment rate, Rick Scott, the governor of Florida, recently wrote to U.S. President Barack Obama asking the federal government to accept Taiwan's request to buy F-16 C/D jet fighters as soon as possible.

‘Journal’ Editorial Warns Obama Not to Appease China by Withholding Jets (Taipei Times, Aug. 6, 2011) The Wall Street Journal has published an editorial on its Web site, warning Obama not to appease Beijing.

181 U.S. Congressmen Urge Prompt Sale of F-16 C/Ds to Taiwan
(CNA, Aug. 2, 2011) One hundred and eighty-one United States' congressmen have urged the U.S. to sell F-16 C/D jet fighters to Taiwan as soon as possible to help ensure peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.

Taiwan Wins in War Simulation: Report
(Taipei Times, Aug. 2, 2011) The latest computerized scenario carried out by the military showed that in a war with China, Taiwan’s military was able to defeat enemy forces after they landed and tried to occupy the country, a local newspaper said.

China Lobbies US during Taiwan Talks
(Taipei Times, Jul. 31, 2011) The US and China on Friday held top-level talks on Taiwan, with Washington working pre-emptively to avoid fallout as a decision nears on whether to sell fighter jets to Taiwan.

Taiwanese Feel Threatened by China Missiles: Minister
(CNA, Jul. 31, 2011) Defense Minister Kao Hua-chu rebutted remarks by a Beijing official that China's missiles are not aimed at Taiwan, saying that “it is hard for Taiwan's people to buy his story.”

MND Confirms Chinese Jets Entered Local Airspace in June
(China Post, Jul. 26, 2011) The Ministry of National Defense confirmed that two Chinese jet fighters crossed the centerline of the Taiwan Strait last month, but with no apparent hostile intent.

P-3Cs ‘Perform’ Well in Military Drill
(Taipei Times, Jul. 26, 2011) The tabletop phase of the Han Kuang 27 series of military exercises for the first time included P-3C marine patrol aircraft in the simulation, which performed very well in detecting Chinese submarines during an attack/defense simulation.

U.S. Said to Decide on Lockheed F-16 Jets to Taiwan by October
(Bloomberg, Jul. 22, 2011) The Obama administration has committed to deciding by Oct. 1 whether to allow the sale of 66 Lockheed Martin Corp. F-16 jets to Taiwan, according to an aide to Sen. John Cornyn.

Taiwan Says China’s Military Advantage Is Growing
(AP, Jul. 19, 2011) Taiwan's Defense Ministry says China's military advantage over the island is increasing, amid Beijing's attempts to block foreign forces from intervening in a possible conflict.

US Weapons Needed for Leverage: Minister
(CNA, Jul. 17, 2011) Taiwan needs U.S. weapons to maintain a balance with China despite warming relations across the Taiwan Strait, Taiwan's Information Minister Philip Yang said in Washington D.C.

Spy Did Not Deliver Code Scrambler to China: MND
(Taipei Times, Jul. 17, 2011) The Ministry of National Defense denied a local media report claiming that former Army major general Lo Hsien-che sold a scrambler used by Taiwan’s intelligence services to China while he was posted in Thailand from 2002 to 2005.

Taiwan Needs Missiles, Not F-16s, Article Says
(Taipei Times, Jul. 15, 2011) US-based Foreign Policy magazine says that Taiwan should “mimic mainland China’s missile program” rather than ask the US to sell it advanced F-16C/D aircraft.

Official Confirms ‘Carrier Killer’ Is Being Developed
(Taipei Times, Jul. 14, 2011) Reports claim the Deng Feng 21D anti-ship missile has a range of almost 3,000km, nearly twice as long as previously assessed by the US military.

Government Mulls Anti-Piracy Mission
(Taipei Times, Jul. 13, 2011) The government is considering dispatching navy warships to protect long-distance fishing boats from Somali pirates, Samuel Chen, director-general of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Department of African Affairs, said.

Military Prepares to Meet 1st China Carrier
(China Post, Jul. 13, 2011) MND said it has been making preparations in response to the China's construction of its first aircraft carrier and has listed anti-aircraft carrier tactics in its annual military drill ever since 2008.

Biden to Tell China No F-16s for Taiwan: Report
(Taipei Times, Jul. 12, 2011) US Vice President Joe Biden, who is expected to embark on a state visit to China in the middle of next month, will provide assurances to Beijing that the US has no plans to sell Taiwan the F-16C/D aircraft it is seeking, reports said.

Taiwan Test-Fires Self-Developed Sub-Launched Missile

(AFP, Jul. 8, 2011) Taiwan has test-fired for the first time a locally developed submarine-launched missile designed to counter the threat of China’s fast-expanding navy, a report said.

Taiwanese Military Reportedly Develops ‘Stealth’ Coating
(Taipei Times, Jul. 5, 2011) The Republic of China navy has made a major breakthrough in the development of an absorbent paint that can provide stealth capabilities to its weapons platforms, local media reported.

US to Upgrade Taiwan’s Existing F-16 Jet: Legislator
(AFP, Jul. 4, 2011) The United States is expected to announce soon it will help Taiwan to upgrade its current F-16 fighter planes rather than selling it more advanced aircraft, a senior Taipei legislator said.

No Request for Jets without Consensus: US-based Official
(Taipei Times, Jul. 2, 2011) Taiwan will not present a letter of request for the procurement and acquisition of any specific items of military hardware without prior consensus with the US, a Taiwanese official said.

Warmer Cross-Strait Ties Help Taiwan’s Preventive Defense: Perry
(CNA, Jul. 1, 2011) Taiwan has actively improved relations with China over the past three years, a policy that has helped build mutual trust across the Taiwan Strait and is conducive to Taiwan's defense if viewed from a war prevention point of view, former U.S. Defense Secretary William Perry said.

Taiwan Should Build Its Own Jet Fighters: Ma
(China Post, Jul. 1, 2011) President Ma Ying-jeou pledged that the country will not give up the goal to build its own jet fighters instead of relying on imported ones to express the country's resolution to defend itself.

Taiwan Can’t Neglect National Defense: Ma
(China Post, Jun. 30, 2011) President Ma Ying-jeou said that the government can't neglect the nation's self-defense capabilities, a major reason behind its insistence on seeking to purchase F-16 C/D fighter jets.

Taiwan Unveils Upgraded Fighter Jet
(AP, Jun. 30, 2011) Taiwan has unveiled an upgraded version of its Indigenous Defence Fighter, a modest military jet that went into service 19 years ago.

MND Denies Claims New F-16 Bid Failed
(Taipei Times, Jun. 29, 2011) Defense News reported that the State Department had turned down a request by the Taiwan Economic and Cultural Representative Office in Washington to submit a new official letter of request to the American Institute in Taiwan for the 66 F-16C/Ds.

Taiwan Supersonic Missile Test Flops
(AFP, Jun. 28, 2011) Taiwan's defense ministry confirmed reports that a new supersonic anti-ship missile had missed its target during a routine naval drill, in the latest in a series of setbacks.

New F-16s Looking Unlikely, US Daily Says
(Taipei Times, Jun. 23, 2011) A major US newspaper is reporting that despite representatives of both parties in the US Congress pushing US President Barack Obama to sell F-16C/D aircraft to Taiwan, only the upgrading of older models “looks likely.”

Taiwan Holds Computer Simulation of Chinese Attack
(AP, Jun. 20, 2011) Taiwan has begun its annual computer simulation of a Chinese attack, reflecting the island's anxiety over the continuing military threat China poses to it despite warming ties between the two sides.

US Lawmakers Press for Jets to Taiwan
(AFP, Jun.16, 2011) US lawmakers across party lines stepped up pressure Thursday on President Barack Obama to sell F-16 jet fighters to Taiwan, with some accusing the administration of showing deference to China.

Reducing Military’s Budget Will Not Affect Nation’s Defense: MND
(China Post, Jun. 15, 2011) MND) yesterday confirmed that it will largely reduce its annual budget for the purchase of military hardware from next year, but said doing so will not compromise the nation's defense capabilities.

U.S. May Announce F-16 Upgrade Deal with Taiwan Soon: Defense News (CNA, Jun. 6, 2011) The United States may allow its contractors to upgrade Taiwan's existing F-16 A/B jet fighters later this year or in 2012, according to a report carried in the latest issue of Defense News.

China Ties Provide Lines of Defense: Ma
(CNA, Jun. 2, 2011) President Ma Ying-jeou identified what he described as “three lines of defense” for Taiwan: institutionalized relations with mainland China, Taiwan’s soft power, and international support for the country.

US Senator Petition for F-16 Sale
(Taipei Times, May 28, 2011) Forty-five out of the 100 senators across party lines signed a letter urging the sale, despite Chinese claims that support for the TRA was in decline.

Over 100 Lawmakers in US Back Arms Sales to Taiwan
(China Post, May 25, 2011) A senior official at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged the U.S. government to sell advanced arms to Taiwan, as more than 100 American lawmakers have sponsored a proposal for the transactions.

PLA Chief ‘Lying through His Teeth,’ Legislator Says
(DPA, May 20, 2011) Taiwanese military and intelligence officers rejected claims by People’s Liberation Army Chief of General Staff Chen Bingdethat China did not have ballistic missiles targeting Taiwan in areas along the coast.

Gov’t Won’t Delay Buying Advanced US Arms: Ma
(China Post, May 17, 2011) President Ma Ying-jeou said the government will not delay the procurement of advanced U.S. weaponry to help maintain national stability and effective defense capability.

Taiwan’s President Ma Presses for U.S. Jets, Subs
(Bloomberg, May 12, 2011) President Ma Ying-Jeou of Taiwan called for the U.S. to end years of stalling and provide F-16 fighter jets and submarines to maintain “leverage” as he continues to solidify a rapprochement with China.

Taiwan Missile Can Hit Beijing: Ex-Minister
(China Post, Apr. 28, 2011) A former minister of national defense recently revealed in his memoir published recently that Taiwan-made intermediate-range cruise missile can reach as far as some Chinese cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Shenyang and Chengdu.

Military Exchange with S Korea in Jeopardy: Report
(Taipei Times, Apr. 23, 2011) The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is looking into a report in a Japanese daily that South Korea is planning to abolish a military student exchange program with Taiwan as it prepares to take in Chinese military students.

China Boosting Missile Strength: Think Tank
(Taipei Times, Apr. 21, 2011) A Washington-based think tank said China was in the process of significantly expanding its ballistic missile infrastructure opposite Taiwan.

Ma Renews Call for US Fighter Jet Sale
(AFP, Apr. 20, 2011) President Ma Ying-jeou renewed his call on Washington to sell Taiwan F-16C/D aircraft during a meeting with US Representative Dan Burton.

US: Arms Sales to Taiwan Not Influenced by Sino-American Relations (VOA, Apr. 13, 2011) Two senior U.S. officials say that when Washington makes decisions on whether to sell arms to Taiwan, it is not influenced by the affect such deals might have on U.S. relations with China.

President Inaugurates Missile Ships, Promises Buildup
(AFP, Apr. 8, 2011) President Ma Ying-jeou inaugurated a squadron of indigenous missile ships as he pledged to continue a military buildup to offset the military threat from China.

Taiwan Faces Prospect of Non-credible Fighter Capacity within Decade: Lugar (Taipei Times, Apr. 4, 2011) Taiwan’s airpower situation is deteriorating and replacement of its tactical aircraft is necessary, justified and not provocative, US Senator Richard Lugar told US Secretary of State Hilary Rodham Clinton in a letter dated April 1.

State Blocks Taiwan Arms
(Washington Times, Mar. 30, 2011) The State Department is holding up final approval of Taiwan’s request for a multibillion-dollar arms package to upgrade Taipei’s fleet of aging F-16 jets.

Premier Sets 2015 Target All-Volunteer Army Conversion
(CNA, Mar. 30, 2011) The government will make the army an all-volunteer force by 2015 as a goal, despite facing current financial difficulties, Premier Wu Den-yih said.

Experts Question NSB’s Missile Scoop
(Taipei Times, Mar. 29, 2011) The lack of US intelligence on a new type of short-range ballistic missile allegedly deployed by China has led some defense specialists to conclude that the projectile could be a medium-range missile already known to US authorities.

Military Pledges Review After 2nd Missile Test Flop Since Jan.
(CNA, Mar. 24, 2011) Taiwan's Air Force said that two out of four missiles missed their targets during a drill earlier this week, two months after a similar failure left military leaders red-faced.

Taiwan to Cut 9,200 Troops Amid Warm Ties with PRC
(Taipei Times, Mar. 8, 2011) The reduction is part of a five-year plan aimed at trimming the size of Taiwan’s armed forces by 60,000, or more than 20 percent from the present level of 275,000 troops.

China Says U.S. Must Stop Taiwan Arms Sales
(Reuters, Mar. 6, 2011) The United States will put improved relations with Beijing at risk if it does not stop selling arms to Taiwan, China’s Foreign Minister said.

Taiwan Will Not Match Chinese Defense Spending
(CNA, Mar. 6, 2011) Taiwan will not engage in an arms race with China, but will focus instead on making optimal use of its defense budget, the Ministry of National Defense said.

AIT Confirms US Role in Major Spy Investigation
(Taipei Times, Feb. 18, 2011) The American Institute in Taiwan confirmed that US authorities are assisting Taiwan with an investigation into the activities of General Lo Hsien-che, who was arrested last month on suspicion of spying for China.

Ex-NSC Official Warns on ‘Overreaction’ to Spy Case
(Taipei Times, Feb. 16, 2011) Philip Yang said President Ma Ying-jeou’s administration should choose its response carefully to avoid “overspill.”

Taiwan’s Defense Jeopardized by Double Agent: Ex-spy Chief
(AFP, Feb. 14, 2011) Taiwan's ability to defend itself in the event of a Chinese invasion has been badly compromised by the island's worst espionage case in 50 years, an ex-spy chief has warned.

US Cooperation Continues Despite Spy Case
(China Post, Feb. 11, 2011) MOFA noted that the arrest of Lo would not impact the Taiwan-United States cooperation on military and other fronts.

Spy Allegations ‘Deadly Serious,’ US Expert Says
(Taipei Times, Feb. 11, 2011) A top US expert on Asian military affairs said that espionage allegations against Major General Lo Hsien-cheof Taiwan were “deadly serious” and potentially “very damaging.”

General Had No Access to Classified Info: Army
(China Post, Feb. 10, 2011) The military claimed the army general arrested for allegedly spying for China did not have access to confidential information, but declined to say whether he had been involved in a crucial U.S.-Taiwan collaboration project.

Army Gen. Found to be Spying for Mainland: Ministry of Defense
(China Post, Feb. 9, 2011) A one-star army general, Lo Hsien-che, was found to be a Chinese spy and detained on suspected espionage charges before the Lunar New Year.

Defense Chief Defends Missile Test Results
(China Post, Jan. 29, 2011) Defense Minister Kao Hua-chu said that it is rather difficult for every fired missile to hit the bull's eye. But he also stressed there is definitely room for improvement.

President Urges U.S. to Sell Taiwan F-16C/D Fighters
(CNA, Jan. 25, 2011) President Ma Ying-jeou said the United States should sell Taiwan advanced F-16 C/D jet fighters because the existing military imbalance across the Taiwan Strait could impede the further development of cross-strait relations.

Congress Told Taiwan Needs Aircraft
(Taipei Times, Jan. 21, 2011) A US congressional committee was told on Wednesday that Taiwan needed more advanced fighter aircraft and diesel submarines to defend itself against a possible attack by China.

Taiwan Tests Missiles; Results Mixed
(New York Times, Jan. 19, 2011) On the eve of a summit meeting between the presidents of China and the United States, Taiwan tested 19 missiles on Tuesday with mixed results.

Gates Reiterates US’ Taiwan Policy
(Taipei Times, Jan. 13, 2011) The US secretary of defense said that Washington does not support Taiwanese independence, but that it does have ‘certain obligations’ under the TRA.

Separate China from US Sales: KMT’s Lin
(CNA, Jan 13, 2011) The development of ties with China must be treated as a separate issue from U.S. arms sales to Taiwan, said KMT lawmaker Lin Yu-fang, and he urged the government to deal with both gingerly to gain maximum protection militarily and economically.

Pentagon Says No Change in U.S. Policy on Arms Sales to Taiwan
(CNA, Jan. 12, 2011) The Pentagon was responding to a comment made by U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert Gates in Beijing that he believes U.S. arms sales to Taiwan may evolve into less of a hot-button issue in its relations with China.

Ex-Intelligence Officers Visit China
(Taipei Times, Jan. 10, 2011) Nineteen retired Taiwanese intelligence officials last month visited late General Tai Li’s hometown in Jiangshan City, Zhejiang Province, China, reports said.

Nearly 80% Will Voluntarily Defend Country: Survey
(CNA, Dec. 28, 2010) Deputy Defense Minister Chao Shih-chang confirmed the results of a poll that showed 76.5 percent of respondents will voluntarily fight for their country if it comes under military threat.

New Anti-Submarine Aircraft to Enter Service in ’11: Report
(AFP, Dec. 27, 2010) The first of a dozen anti-submarine aircraft are set to go into service in Taiwan next year, local media reported, as East Asian governments look to counter an increasingly assertive China.

Minister Sets Missile Talk Conditions
(Taipei Times, Dec. 23, 2010) Mainland Affairs Council Minister Lai Shin-yuan set two preconditions for cross-strait discussions on the removal of Chinese missiles targeting Taiwan, but emphasized the time is not ripe for such talks.

Navy Asked to Explain Apparent Ship Plan Delay
(Taipei Times, Dec. 14, 2010) The navy was asked to justify an apparent decision to delay plans to launch a program to build submarine chasers to increase the nation’s coastal defense capabilities.

Taiwan Confirms Mass Producing Cruise Missiles
(AFP, Dec. 9, 2010) Taiwan has confirmed for the first time that it is mass-producing cruise missiles, despite fast warming ties with China.

US Reaffirms Commitment to Taiwan Defense Needs
(CNA, Dec. 9, 2010) United States Deputy Secretary of State James Steinberg reaffirmed Tuesday Washington's commitment to help Taiwan meet its defense needs while at the same time calling for continued dialogue across the Taiwan Strait. Deputy Secretary Steinberg on U.S. Policy Toward Asia

US Not Aware of Weapons Delivery Postponement: AIT
(Taipei Times, Nov. 21, 2010) AIT Director William Stanton said that the US wasn’t aware that the Taiwanese government intended to seek an extended delay on the delivery of two weaponry systems from his country.

President Ma Vows to Avoid China Arms Race
(CNA, Nov. 9, 2010) President Ma Ying-jeou said Taiwan is unlikely to engage in an arms race with China and will instead seek a balance of military power across the Taiwan Strait through innovative and asymmetric approaches.

Ma Reiterates Call for US to Sell Taiwan F-16 C/Ds
(CNA, Nov. 9, 2010) President Ma Ying-jeou made another pitch for help in getting Washington to sell Taiwan advanced F16C/D jet fighters at a meeting with visiting American congressman Elton Gallegly.

Taiwan Remains Aware of Potential China Threat: Ma
(CNA, Nov. 4, 2010) President Ma Ying-jeou said that Taiwan will stay alert to the potential threat posed by China to the country's security, despite recent positive developments in cross-Taiwan Strait ties.

Taiwan Develops Missile System
(AFP, Nov. 2, 2010) Taiwan is developing a potent missile system that can strike airfields and harbors on the mainland, in a bid to nip a Chinese invasion in the bud, local media said.

Arms Procurements to Be Delayed, KMT Legislator Says
(Taipei Times, Oct. 28, 2010) Some key arms procurements from the US would be delayed by a few years because the Ministry of National Defense does not have sufficient funds, a legislator said.

Stop US Arms Sales to Taiwan: China
(Taipei Times, Oct. 24, 2010) Director of China’s Taiwan Affairs Office Wang Yi ended a mid-week visit to Washington by urging US President Barack Obama to stop selling arms to Taiwan.

Taiwan Plans to Build Six Minesweeping Naval Craft
(AFP, Oct. 20, 2010) A Taiwanese legislator said that Taiwan was planning to build six minesweepers as part of efforts to boost its defense capabilities, despite improving political and economic ties with China.

Defense Ministry to Review French-Built Fighter Jets
(CNA, Oct. 19, 2010) National Defense Minister Kao Hua-chu said that he will ask for an overall review of the country's French made Mirage fighter jets after a lawmaker pointed out that the flight hours of the fighters have been reduced due to concern about a possible engine problem.

Taiwan Deflects China’s Offer to Hold Military Talks
(CNN, Oct. 15, 2010) Taiwan responded coolly to China's offer to hold military talks, saying that Beijing should offer to remove its military deployment targeting Taiwan.

China Calls for Military Talks with Taiwan ‘in Due Course’
(AFP, Oct. 14, 2010) China called for talks with Taiwan on military issues "in due course", as the self-ruled island and former foe announced it was developing an unmanned surveillance aircraft.

US, China Clash Over Taiwan As Defense Talks Resume
(AFP, Oct. 13, 2010) China and the United States clashed over U.S. arms sales to Taiwan as top defense officials struggled to shore up fragile military relations.

Taiwan Will Be Able to Track PRC Missiles: MND
(Taipei Times, Oct. 13, 2010) Minister of National Defense Kao Hua-chu assured lawmakers that the military would be able to track Chinese missiles or satellite rockets in motion after the nation’s US$967.4 million long-range early warning radar system is completed.

Taiwan’s Development of Drones Confirmed
(Taipei Times, Oct. 13, 2010) A Ministry of National Defense spokesman confirmed that Taiwan was developing an unmanned surveillance aircraft (UAV), a move that provides further confirmation of a continuing arms race despite closer political and economic ties with China.

Taiwan to Continue to Buy, Develop Arms: Ma
(AFP, Oct. 11, 2010) Taiwan will keep buying arms abroad as it cannot rely solely on improving ties with China to ensure its security, President Ma Ying-jeou said.

State Department Says US Won’t Stop Taiwan Arms Sales
(Taipei Times, Oct. 14, 2010) US State Department spokesman Philip Crowley has confirmed that despite major objections from China, US President Barack Obama is not considering ending arms sales to Taiwan.

US Still Mulling F-16 Sale: AIT Chief Burghardt
(Taipei Times, Oct. 7, 2010) AIT Chairman Raymond Burghardt told Taipei that despite enormous pressure from China, the US continues to give serious consideration to selling it advanced F-16 fighter aircraft.

China Threat Is Still Growing: Senior Official
(AP, Oct. 6, 2010) A senior Taiwanese official has told a defense forum in the United States that despite rapidly warming commercial relations with Taipei, China's military threat against the island is growing, Taiwanese media reported.

Top Taiwan Officer Visits US Over Jet Deal: Report
(AFP, Oct. 5, 2010) A top Taiwanese military officer is visiting the United States to press for the sale of F-16 fighter jets to the island, a deal that may irk giant neighbor China.

Missile Move Could Cut Arms Sales
(Taipei Times, Sep. 30, 2010) If China significantly reduces the number of missiles it aims at Taiwan, the US can be expected to cut arms sales to Taiwan, a Washington conference was told.

Government Denies Missed Opportunity for Military Meeting
(Taipei Times, Sep. 30, 2010) The government yesterday denied claims by a military analyst that it had blown its chance to see Minister of National Defense Kao Hua-chu attend an annual conference on US-Taiwan defense and military cooperation in the US next week.

Taiwan Welcomes China’s Remarks on Missile Withdrawal
(CNA, Sep. 24, 2010) Taiwan welcomed Chinese Primer Wen Jiabao's Sept. 22 statement that missiles deployed by Beijing across the Taiwan Strait aimed at Taiwan will eventually be removed.

U.S.-Taiwan Defense Industry Conference Slated for Oct. 3
(CNA, Sep. 22, 2010) The annual Taiwan-U.S. Defense Industry Conference will be held in the U.S. state of Maryland Oct. 3-5, the U.S.-Taiwan Business Council said.

Pentagon Changes Pacific Surveillance
(Taipei Times, Sep. 19, 2010) The US will base three Global Hawk drones in Guam to capture information about Chinese missile fields and bases in areas across from Taiwan.

Army Helicopters Make First-Ever Cross-Sea Flight
(China Post, Sep. 18, 2010) Helicopters from the army flew from Taiwan to the outlying island county of Penghu recently in their first-ever cross-the-sea flights, a newspaper reported.

Taiwan to Deploy New Missile Defense System by 2015
(Reuters, Sep. 8, 2010) Taiwan will deploy a new missile defense system by 2015 to protect bases from any attack by rival China, an official said, a sign that military distrust still runs deep despite a thaw in trade ties.

Missile Defense Shield to Be Ready Next Year: Report
(AFP, Sep. 7, 2010) Taiwan expects a much-anticipated missile defence shield to be ready next year after buying advanced weapons at a cost of about NT$300 billion (US$9.4 billion), local media reported.

China Intensifying Military Presence Build-up: Reports
(AFP, Sep. 2, 2010) China is ramping-up its military presence facing Taiwan despite the easing of hostilities across the Strait, a defense ministry report cited by local media warned.

Taiwan to Deploy Missiles
(AFP, Aug. 31, 2010) Taiwan plans to deploy its own cruise missiles by the end of this year, a lawmaker and military pundit said, reflecting continued tension with China despite warming ties.

US Concerned about Taiwan Ex-generals’ China Visits: Report
(AFP, Aug. 30, 2010) Closer contacts between retired Taiwanese generals and the Chinese authorities have sparked concerns in Washington, the island's major arms supplier, media and an official said.

China Warns US against Selling Taiwan Radars
(AP, Aug. 28, 2010) China objected to a U.S. plan to supply radar equipment to Taiwan's air force, even though the sale was far short of the F-16 fighter jets the island's president urged Washington to provide last week.

US to Supply Taiwan Air Force Radar Equipment
(AP, Aug. 26, 2010) The United States said it will supply radar equipment to Taiwan's air force, an approval of a relatively marginal item less likely to anger China than the F-16 fighter jets the island's president urged Washington to provide last week.

President Pushes US to Sell Taiwan New Jet Fighters
(CNA, Aug. 20, 2010) President Ma Ying-jeou urged the United States yesterday to sell F-16 C/D jet fighters to Taiwan to prevent the balance of military power across the Taiwan Strait from tilting further in China's favor.

Taiwan Vigilant in Face of China’s Military Buildup: Ma
(CNA, Aug. 19, 2010) President Ma Ying-jeou stressed the importance of the Japan-U.S. security treaty signed in 1960, saying that it has since formed the bedrock of peace and stability in East Asia, during an interview with Sankei Shimbun.

Taiwan Renews Bid for US Arms after Pentagon Says Chinese Military Threat against Island Grows (AP, Aug. 17, 2010) Taiwan's Defense Ministry urged the U.S. to sell the island advanced weapons systems, after a Pentagon report concluded that China's arms buildup is giving it a wider military advantage over Taiwan.

Report: US to Sell Taiwan Decommissioned Warships
(AP, Aug. 5, 2010) A Taiwanese newspaper reported that the U.S. will sell the democratic island two Perry class frigates, a move that would almost certainly anger China and further undermine Beijing's already tense relations with Washington.

War Game Gives China 3-Day Victory: Report
(AFP, Aug. 5, 2010) A computerized scenario carried out by Taiwan's military showed that in a war with China the island's capital Taipei would be in enemy hands in just three days, a report said.

Ma Quotes Mencius, Says Best Not to Provoke China
(Taipei Times, Aug. 4, 2010) Likening the military might of Taiwan and China to a grasshopper and a rooster, President Ma Ying-jeou said although Taiwan could be a powerful grasshopper, the best strategy was not to provoke the rooster but to prevent it from taking any reckless action.

Ma Wants Unconditional Missile Removal
(China Post, Aug. 3, 2010) Beijing should begin to remove its missiles pointed at Taiwan without preconditions because such a move will mark an important step towards improving relations between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait, said the Presidential Office.

Taiwan Rejected Beijing Plan for Missile Talks
(DPA, Aug. 1, 2010) Taiwan has rejected China's call to hold talks on China removing missiles facing Taiwan, but asked China to remove the missiles on its own initiative instead.

China Missile-Removal Offer Goes Unanswered
(China Post, Jul. 31, 2010) Taipei's China policymakers declined to comment on Beijing's latest overture hinting at the possibility of removing missiles targeting Taiwan.

Boeing to Build Missiles for Taiwan: US DoD
(CNA, Jul. 31, 2010) The Defense Department approved in 2008 Taiwan's request for the missiles which are reportedly to be used to arm Taiwan's two submarines.

Taiwan Leader Chairs China Attack Wargame: Report
(Bangkok Post, Jul. 22, 2010) Taiwan's President Ma Ying-jeou has presided over a computerized wargame simulating intensive ballistic missile attacks by China, it was reported.

Taiwan Nears Patriot Contract: Raytheon
(Taipei Times, Jul. 22, 2010) A Taiwanese official visiting Washington said if the US did not sell Taiwan F-16C/Ds, it would consider upgrading Taiwan’s fleet of older F-16A/Bs.

Military a Key Bargaining Chip for Taiwan: DPP
(CNA, Jul. 20, 2010) Taiwan has to maintain its military strength to serve as a bargaining chip in negotiations with China, Chairwoman Tsai Ing-wen of the opposition Democratic Progressive Party said.

Ma Orders Ministry to Draft Military Shopping List
(AFP, Jul. 20, 2010) Taiwan plans to buy US-made torpedoes and heavy tanks to boost its defense capabilities despite improving relations with China, reports said.

PRC’s Preparation to Attack Taiwan Accelerate: Report
(Taipei Times, Jul. 19, 2010) Despite repeated displays of goodwill by the government of President Ma Ying-jeou, China’s military preparations for an attack on Taiwan continue to accelerate, a report by the MND’s intelligence research branch says.

Taiwan Still Needs Weapons from US, GIO Minister Says
(Taipei Times, Jul. 18, 2010) Taiwan still wants the US to approve further weapons sales despite a marked thaw in tensions between Taipei and Beijing, Government Information Office Minister Johnny Chiang said in Washington.

US Deploys Three Subs in Asia
(Taipei Times, Jul. 10, 2010) Three Ohio-class nuclear submarines — heavily armed with Tomahawk cruise missiles — are now making a show of US military power closer than usual to China.

Arms Sales Will Continue, US Says
(Taipei Times, Jul. 9, 2010) In a policy speech on Taiwan, US Deputy Assistant Secretary for East Asian and Pacific Affairs David Shear has pledged that arms sales will continue.

Taiwan To Run Computer Simulation of Invasion
(DPA, Jul. 8, 2010) Taiwan's military is to run a computerized simulation of a surprise attack from China from July 19 despite warming cross-strait relations, officials said.

China Lobbying Provokes Freeze on US Arms Sales
(Taipei Times, Jun. 30, 2010) The president of the US-Taiwan Business Council confirmed a report in a US-based defense magazine that the US State Department had frozen US congressional notifications for new arms sales to Taiwan “until at least spring next year.”

Taiwan Sends Aircraft to U.S. for Upgrade
(AFP, Jun. 23, 2010) Taiwan's defence ministry said it has shipped two Hawkeye early warning aircraft to the United States to boost their capabilities.

No Redeployment Plans from China: U.S.
(CNA, Jun. 19, 2010) China has never presented a concrete plan for redeployment of its missiles targeting Taiwan, U.S. Deputy Secretary of State James B. Steinberg said.

MAC Welcomes Report on PLA Forces Repositioning
(Taipei Times, Jun. 18, 2010) The Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) welcomed China’s reported offer to reposition its military forces opposite Taiwan.

President: U.S. Arms Sales Boost Taiwan’s National Defense