The war in Ukraine has taught that asymmetric responses play an important role in a conflict with a larger, more capable, power. Small drones, portable missile systems and electronic warfare have proven their worth in battle with the mighty Russian army.
Naval drone warfare offers another dramatic example. The Russian navy in the Black Sea was cornered using unmanned vessels and creative tactics. Asymmetry at sea offers critical advantages, but Taiwan insists on trying to match a foe that is far ahead in the race.
On Sep 28, Taiwan unveiled its first homemade submarine – something that was once considered “mission impossible”, although it won’t enter service for another two years. Taiwan is planning to build eight such submarines, but even when all are built, they will be outnumbered by China’s estimated 60 submersibles.
Michael Lostumbo, a senior defence researcher at RAND Corporation, a Washington-based think tank, believes that Taiwan needs to focus its security efforts more narrowly. He argues that for Taiwan to survive an onslaught it needs to design a better shopping list than the one it sent to the United States.
The 108 M1A2T Abrams tanks it ordered in 2019 were a step in the wrong direction, but the recently requested Reaper drones suggest Taipei may be updating its military doctrine. Still, some find it hard to celebrate.
“Today and for many years into the future, Taiwan’s military budget will be devoted to things that will be destroyed or expended very quickly,” Lostumbo said in a report.
Complicating this, the delivery of 66 US-made F-16 fighters will not be completed until 2026 due to software problems.
Source: CNA
