Taiwan necessitates bolstering its air defense capabilities, according to an expert's analysis.
In a recent analysis, Taiwan Thinktank consultant Kao Chih-jung highlighted the importance of enhancing Taiwan's anti-air defense capabilities, citing potential threats from the Chinese People's Liberation Army's Rocket Force (PLARF).
According to Kao, the PLARF, equipped with short, medium, and long-range ballistic missiles, as well as land cruise missiles, would need to launch a significant number of missiles to paralyze Taiwan's ability to launch aircraft. To sever the two main runways at Taiwan's military airfields into sections less than 3,000ft (914m), the PLARF would require more than 800 ballistic missiles in the first wave, Kao estimated.
The PLARF would target key air bases such as Hsinchu Air Base, Taichung's Ching Chuan Kang Air Base, Chiayi Air Base, Tainan Air Base, and Penghu Air Base, requiring approximately 500 ballistic missiles and 1,080 PHL-191 rockets, Kao added.
To further overload Taiwan's air defenses, China would have to launch additional CJ-10 cruise missiles and send its planes to fire long-range missiles, Kao suggested. In a scenario where China launches a second barrage within half an hour, it would continue the attack, he stated.
Taiwan currently possesses 21 sets of long-range anti-air systems. However, each combat missile base of the PLARF hosts between 6 to 8 missile brigades, meaning that the sheer number of missiles launched could easily overwhelm Taiwan's defenses.
In an effort to counter these threats, Kao recommended that Taiwan continue purchasing newer versions of the Patriot-III missiles from the United States. These missile systems, produced and provided by the U.S. for allied defense purposes, are currently being used by Taiwan to defend against Chinese air attacks.
Moreover, Kao suggested that Taiwan should continue to upgrade its extended-range Hsiung Feng II-E and Tien Kung missiles. These missiles, based in Taoyuan's Yangmei, Lujhu, and Taishan districts, as well as New Taipei City's Sansia District, according to public information, would play a crucial role in defending Taiwan's airspace.
However, such an attack would severely strain the PLARF's reserves, as mentioned by Kao. This underscores the need for a balanced approach to defense spending, ensuring that Taiwan's defenses are robust enough to deter potential aggression while not draining the country's resources.
In conclusion, the analysis by Kao Chih-jung serves as a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining and upgrading Taiwan's anti-air defense capabilities in the face of growing threats from the PLARF. As tensions in the region continue to rise, it is crucial that Taiwan takes all necessary steps to protect its airspace and ensure the safety of its citizens.
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