Post by : Shakul
Taiwan is set to bolster its defenses on the Pratas Islands as tensions with China escalate. This decision follows a noticeable increase in Chinese maritime engagement around the islands over the past year.
Kuan Bi-ling reports that China has been intensifying its “gray zone” tactics—non-combat activities such as coast guard operations that aim to exert influence without open aggression. Such activities are increasingly impacting the Pratas area.
Positioned over 400 kilometers from Taiwan, the Pratas Islands are seen as strategically vulnerable due to their isolation and limited defensive measures. Presently, Taiwan's coast guard manages their security rather than its military.
Taiwan has initiated infrastructure upgrades on the islands, including improvements to port facilities and plans to introduce vessels with enhanced capabilities. Additionally, officials mentioned ongoing efforts to develop a comprehensive defense system for the islands, though specific details remain confidential.
Recent tensions peaked after a Chinese drone conducted reconnaissance over the islands, which Taiwan branded as provocative, raising alarms about Beijing's intentions in the area.
Taiwanese officials assert that control over the Pratas Islands carries critical strategic importance for China due to their location at the northern gateway of the South China Sea. This has prompted Taiwan to expedite measures aimed at fortifying both its peacetime and wartime readiness.
Furthermore, Taiwan highlighted that its coast guard vessels could seamlessly integrate into military operations if needed, especially newer ships like the Anping-class corvettes, which are designed to accommodate advanced weaponry.
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