Taiwan is fortifying the island that could be the first to come under attack from China — Reuters

Taiwan is strengthening its defenses in the Penghu Archipelago, which the military considers one of the first targets of a potential Chinese invasion.

The Penghu Archipelago consists of approximately 90 islands and islets and is of strategic importance for Taiwan’s defense. Control of the archipelago allows for the containment of the Chinese navy on its way to the main island, so in the event of a large-scale attack, Beijing would have to either capture the Penghu Islands or destroy the long-range systems deployed there.

Taiwan is already deploying more advanced weaponry on the islands. Specifically, during August exercises, the military practiced repelling an amphibious landing using tanks, artillery, mortars, and infantry. Penghu has also seen the first deployment of “Xunfeng” mobile anti-ship missile launchers, and in July, the first drone unit was established there.

According to Taiwanese officials, the deployment of long-range missiles on the archipelago could allow for strikes against Chinese forces even before they cross the Taiwan Strait.

At the same time, during command-post exercises involving former military personnel from the U.S., Taiwan, and Japan, the scenario called for the capture of Penghu the very next day after large-scale Chinese strikes on Taiwan’s military and infrastructure facilities.

Source: Reuters

As a reminder, Russia is likely assisting China with military preparations and is also providing Beijing with intelligence and advanced military technology, which could give China an advantage in the event of a potential conflict over Taiwan.

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