Why is Taiwan Strengthening its “Kill Chain” Amid Chinese Threat?

The Taiwan Ministry of National Defence (MND) has announced that Taiwan is currently in a critical phase of weapon acquisition to bolster its integrated “kill chain” capabilities and deter potential Chinese aggression, as reported by Taiwan News.

The focus remains on enhancing the “kill chain” functionality, a strategic sequence of tactical steps or processes involving weaponry to detect, engage, and neutralize targets in military operations. This move is aimed at doubling combat effectiveness and ensuring a robust defense posture against potential threats.

In a written report titled “Taiwan’s Latest Defense Military Preparation and Strategic Actions in the Face of the International Warfare Situation,” submitted to the Legislative Yuan (parliament) on April 26, the MND underscored the importance of integrating newly acquired weapons with command and control systems.

The military’s strategy also involves collaborating with allied nations in the Indo-Pacific region to construct a regionally integrated deterrence force. This collaborative effort is pivotal in addressing the ongoing threat posed by the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) of China and maintaining peace in the Taiwan Strait.

Taiwan’s partnership with the United States has been instrumental in accelerating arms sales and optimizing the execution of defense-related initiatives. A “Tiger Team” established by the US State Department and the Department of Defense is actively working to facilitate arms sales to Taiwan and bolster its defense capabilities.

In response to recent escalations, Taiwan’s MND reported detecting 26 Chinese military aircraft and five naval vessels operating near Taiwan’s airspace and waters. This included aircraft breaching Taiwan Strait median lines and entering Taiwan’s air defense identification zones (ADIZ). Taiwan promptly responded by monitoring the situation using its intelligence systems, deploying combat patrol aircraft, naval vessels, and air defense missile systems.

As tensions continue to escalate, Taiwan remains vigilant in strengthening its defense mechanisms and forging strategic alliances to safeguard its sovereignty and regional stability.