December 2022 - Taiwan Special Weapons News

Taiwan reports 25,755 new COVID-19 cases, 38 deaths CNA 31 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan's Central Epidemic Command (CECC) reported 25,755 new COVID-19 infections and 38 deaths from the disease Saturday.
South Korean National Assembly delegation visited Taiwan: MOFA CNA 31 Dec 2022 -- South Korea's Taiwan-Korean parliamentary friendship group made a low-profile visit to Taiwan between Dec. 28 and 31, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) said on Saturday.
MOFA slams China for Taiwan reference following talks with Moscow CNA 31 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) on Saturday condemned Beijing for "falsely" claiming Taiwan is part of its territory after talks between China's leader Xi Jinping (習近平) and Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday.
New TAO head shows China more focused on Taiwan issue: scholar CNA 31 Dec 2022 -- The recent appointment of Song Tao (宋濤) as director of China's Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) showed that Beijing is giving an even higher priority to Taiwan affairs, Chang Wu-ueh (張五岳), an expert on cross-Taiwan Strait relations, told CNA.
Taiwan reports 27,413 new COVID-19 cases, 34 deaths CNA 30 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan's Central Epidemic Command (CECC) reported 27,413 new COVID-19 infections and 36 deaths from the disease Friday.
Tsai visits Penghu military sites following record nearby PLA activity CNA 30 Dec 2022 -- President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) on Friday visited several military bases on the island county of Penghu in the wake of record Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) activity in the vicinity of Taiwan.
Chinese military slams US arms sales to Taiwan PLA Daily 30 Dec 2022 -- "China has always been firmly opposed to the US arms sales to China's Taiwan region. The US's move is a serious violation of the one-China principle and the provisions in the three China-US joint communiqués, especially the August 17 Joint Communique of 1982," said Senior Colonel Tan Kefei, spokesperson for China's Ministry of National Defense, in a statement released on Friday.
China to US: Stop selling arms to Taiwan Press TV 30 Dec 2022 -- China has called on the US to stop holding talks with military officials from Taiwan and to refrain from selling weapons to the self-ruled island.
Chinese Foreign Ministry Urges US to Stop Arms Sales to Taiwan Sputnik 30 Dec 2022 -- The United States should stop the sale of arms to Taiwan and cut military ties with the island, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said on Friday.
Funding bill giving loan to Taiwan to buy arms signed into law CNA 30 Dec 2022 -- United States President Joe Biden on Thursday signed into law a U.S. government funding bill for 2023 that includes provisions to authorize US$2 billion in loans to Taiwan to buy weapons from the U.S.
Taiwan reports 27,955 new COVID-19 cases, 36 deaths CNA 29 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan on Thursday reported 27,955 new COVID-19 infections and 36 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
China's dominant COVID variant BF.7 not a threat to Taiwan: CECC CNA 29 Dec 2022 -- BF.7, the Omicron subvariant driving the current COVID-19 surge in China, is unlikely to cause a large-scale rise in cases in Taiwan, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said Thursday.
President Tsai to hold high-level national security meeting on Dec. 31 CNA 29 Dec 2022 -- President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) will convene a high-level national security meeting on Saturday to discuss matters pertaining to Taiwan's security and economic situation, the Presidential Office said Thursday.
Taiwan to tighten eligibility for alternative military service CNA 29 Dec 2022 -- Conscripts who were born in 2005 and after and opt to fulfill their duties in the alternative military service will only be allowed to do so for family or religious-related reasons, according to the Executive Yuan on Thursday.
Latest US-Taiwan arms sale slammed, 'will face mainland countermeasures' Global Times 29 Dec 2022 -- The US announced another batch of arms sales to the island of Taiwan on Wednesday, featuring anti-tank mine-laying systems, a type of weapon that can be used to slow down potential amphibious landing operations from the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA). However, the PLA is well-equipped with minesweeping equipment, including robots, that can nullify these threats, and the latest US-Taiwan collusion will face resolute countermeasures from the Chinese mainland, experts said on Thursday.
PLA military actions targeted at "Taiwan independence" separatist forces and external interferences: Defense Spokesperson PLA Daily 29 Dec 2022 -- The military actions by the PLA are targeted at "Taiwan independence" separatist forces and external interferences, aiming to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity, said Senior Colonel Tan Kefei, a spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of National Defense, at a regular press conference on Thursday.
US approves possible sale of anti-tank systems worth $180 million to Chinese Taipei Press TV 29 Dec 2022 -- The US State Department has approved the potential sale of anti-tank systems worth an estimated $180 million to Chinese Taipei, as tensions continue between the US and China over the self-ruled island.
US Greenlights Sale of Rapid Mine Deployment System to Taiwan as China Tensions Sizzle Sputnik 29 Dec 2022 -- Taipei announced reforms to its mandatory male military service laws this week, with the call-up period to be extended from four to twelve months, conscript pay increased, and future training to feature a more rigorous regimen, including the handling of Javelin, Kestrel and Stinger portable missile systems.
Taiwan thanks U.S. for Volcano mine dispensing system sale CNA 29 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan's government thanked the United States Thursday after Washington approved the sale of up to US$180 million of vehicle-based mine dispensing equipment.
Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States - Volcano System DSCA 28 Dec 2022 -- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States of Volcano (vehicle-launched) anti-tank munition-laying systems and related equipment for an estimated cost of $180 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.
Taiwan reports 28,168 new COVID-19 cases, 25 deaths CNA 28 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan on Wednesday reported 28,168 new COVID-19 infections and 25 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Travelers from China to be subjected to saliva PCR tests at border CNA 28 Dec 2022 -- Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) head Victor Wang (王必勝) announced Wednesday that travelers from China will be required to undergo a saliva COVID-19 test when they arrive in Taiwan starting on Jan. 1.
Taiwan to launch refresher training for former servicewomen in 2023 CNA 28 Dec 2022 -- The Ministry of National Defense (MND) plans to hold platoon-level trials of refresher training for former servicewomen across Taiwan in 2023, Defense Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng (邱國正) said on Wednesday.
Reform to free active forces to focus on territorial defense: Expert CNA 28 Dec 2022 -- The reform of Taiwan's military announced by President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) on Tuesday was aimed at freeing active duty forces to focus on combat preparedness missions and boost the ability of reserve forces to serve as a stronger backup, a military expert told CNA.
China says Taiwanese compatriots won't serve as 'cannon fodder' for separatists Press TV 28 Dec 2022 -- China's government has censured Taiwan for seeking to use the Taiwanese people as "cannon fodder" by extending compulsory military service from four months to one year, starting in 2024.
China Protests Official Japanese Visit to Taiwan Sputnik 28 Dec 2022 -- China expressed dissatisfaction on Wednesday with the ongoing visit of Japanese lawmakers to Taiwan, an island it claims as its territory, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin said.
Japan to deploy missile defense unit near Taiwan island, 'removing pacifist mask' as it ramps up military presence Global Times 28 Dec 2022 -- Japan is removing its pacifist mask as it continues attempts to strengthen its military presence in the Asia-Pacific region, Chinese experts said on Wednesday, following reports that Tokyo is likely to deploy a surface-to-air missile defense unit at Japan's closest self-defense force base to China's Taiwan region.
Taiwan reports 24,498 new COVID-19 cases, 7 deaths CNA 27 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan on Tuesday reported 24,498 new COVID-19 infections and seven deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
No plan to tighten restrictions on travelers as China eases rules: CECC CNA 27 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan will not follow Japan and tighten restrictions on inbound travelers from China as Beijing prepares to significantly relax its COVID-19 prevention rules next month, the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) said on Tuesday.
Taiwan extends compulsory military service to 1 year amid China threat CNA 27 Dec 2022 -- President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) on Tuesday announced that compulsory military service in Taiwan will be extended from four months to one year, effective Jan. 1, 2024, to strengthen Taiwan's combat readiness against potential Chinese attacks.
Taiwan to extend mandatory military service from 4 to 12 months Radio Free Asia 27 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen announced on Tuesday that mandatory military service will be extended from four months to one year to strengthen the island's army amid security threats from China.
Taiwan Triples Compulsory Military Service Time as Cross-Strait Tensions Persist Sputnik 27 Dec 2022 -- Tensions between Beijing and Taipei jumped in August after US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan, kicking off a series of trips to the island by US and European diplomatic delegations. The strain appeared to lessen last month after the China-moderate Kuomintang Party made gains against the ruling Progressive Democrats in local elections.
Extended military service to include higher pay, longer boot camp: President CNA 27 Dec 2022 -- President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) on Tuesday announced that compulsory military service in Taiwan will be extended from four months to one year, effective Jan. 1, 2024, to strengthen Taiwan's combat readiness against potential Chinese attacks.
Tsai announces military reforms, introduces U.S. training models CNA 27 Dec 2022 -- President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) on Tuesday announced a structural reform of Taiwan's military aimed at bolstering Taiwan's defense capabilities that more clearly delineates the main tasks of its voluntary, compulsory, reserve and civil defense units.
Scholars call for training overhaul after military service extension CNA 27 Dec 2022 -- Scholars in Taiwan called on the government to expand training capacity and introduce reforms to better meet the nation's defense needs, after an announcement Tuesday that mandatory military service will be extended from four months to one year starting in 2024, to counter the threat of an increasingly assertive China.
Taiwan's conscription reform shows self-defense commitment: AIT CNA 27 Dec 2022 -- The United States on Tuesday welcomed the conscription reform announced by Taiwan's government earlier that day, saying the move demonstrates the country is committed to self-defense and enhancing deterrence.
Opposition calls for Taiwan conscription reforms alongside extension CNA 27 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan's opposition parties on Tuesday called for effective measures to strengthen training for those undergoing compulsory military service after the ruling Democratic Progressive Party's (DPP) announced plans to lengthen conscription from four months to one year.
Taiwan authorities extend mandatory military service to 1 year, 'a deplorable decision' made under US pressure Global Times 27 Dec 2022 -- At a Tuesday press briefing on "adjusting the structure" of the military and defense, Taiwan regional leader Tsai Ing-wen announced to extend mandatory military service from its current four months to one year starting from 2024.
Taiwan reports 14,234 new COVID-19 cases, 14 deaths CNA 26 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan on Monday reported 14,234 new COVID-19 infections and 14 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Tsai promotes Taiwan's first female two-star general CNA 26 Dec 2022 -- President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) has called on Taiwanese to become more united to strengthen the country's security at a ceremony held to promote 28 senior military officers, including Taiwan's first female two-star general.
President Tsai to announce decision on extending military service Tuesday CNA 26 Dec 2022 -- President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) is set to announce the government's decision on the extension of the current four-month-long mandatory military service at a press event on Tuesday afternoon, amid the rising threat from China, her spokesman said Monday.
71 Chinese warplanes detected around Taiwan, highest number this year CNA 26 Dec 2022 -- A total of 71 Chinese military aircraft and seven vessels have been detected around Taiwan from 6 a.m. Sunday to 6 a.m. Monday, according to the Ministry of National Defense (MND), marking the most within a 24-hour span so far this year.
PLA drills around Taiwan break August record targeting US move Global Times 26 Dec 2022 -- The joint drills by the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) around the island of Taiwan on Sunday in response to the recent escalation in the US-Taiwan collusion were record-breaking, surpassing even the peak number observed in the large-scale PLA drills held in August following US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's provocative visit to Taiwan, as the PLA again demonstrated its capabilities in blockading the island and shutting down all external interference attempts, experts said on Monday.
China's Army Sends 71 Aircraft, 7 Ships to Taiwan Strait - Taiwanese Defense Ministry Sputnik 26 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan's defense ministry said on Monday that the island's armed forces registered 71 aircraft and seven ships of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) approaching the island in the past 24 hours.
China flies 71 warplanes into Taiwan's ADIZ in one day Radio Free Asia 25 Dec 2022 -- China sent a record 71 warplanes into Taiwan's air defense identification zone and held a live-fire exercise around the island on Sunday in an apparent response to the passage of a law that authorizes U.S. military loans and aid to Taiwan.
Taiwan reports 17,729 new COVID-19 cases, 24 deaths CNA 25 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan on Sunday reported 17,729 new COVID-19 infections and 24 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
US lends Taiwan $2 billion to buy American defense equipment Radio Free Asia 25 Dec 2022 -- U.S. President Joe Biden may have made a Christmas gift to Taiwan by signing into law a defense bill, in which the U.S. is to loan the democratic island U.S.$2 billion to bolster its capabilities against threats from China.
PLA holds fire strike drills around Taiwan island after US defense bill provokes China Global Times 25 Dec 2022 -- The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Eastern Theater Command on Sunday organized cross-service joint combat alert patrols and joint fire strike exercises in maritime and aerial areas around the island of Taiwan after the US continued down a provocative and dangerous path of playing the "Taiwan card" to suppress China with its latest defense bill, including $10 billion in security assistance and fast-tracked weapons procurement for the island.
PLA conducts joint combat-readiness security patrol and joint firepower striking exercise around Taiwan Island PLA Daily 25 Dec 2022 -- On December 25, the PLA Eastern Theater Command conducted the joint combat-readiness security patrol and joint firepower striking exercise involving troops of multiple services and arms in the waters and airspace around the Taiwan Island, said Army Senior Colonel Shi Yi, spokesperson for the PLA Eastern Theater Command (ETC), on Sunday.
China stages 'strike drills' around Taiwan, citing 'provocation' by US Press TV 25 Dec 2022 -- China has conducted fresh "strike drills" in the sea and airspace around Taiwan in response to "provocation" from the self-ruled island and the United States.
Czechia deputy foreign minister affirms support for Taiwan's democracy CNA 25 Dec 2022 -- The Czech Republic will do its utmost to support Taiwan's democracy, the country's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Jiří Kozák told CNA in a recent interview.
Taiwan reports 18,066 new COVID-19 cases, 36 deaths CNA 24 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan on Saturday reported 18,066 new COVID-19 infections and 36 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Record US military spending bill, aid to Taiwan anger China Press TV 24 Dec 2022 -- China has blasted the US passing of a defense authorization law that boosts military assistance for Chinese Taipei in defiance of Beijing's territorial claims over the self-ruled island.
U.S. Congress passes funding bill that gives loans, but not grants, to Taiwan to buy weapons CNA 24 Dec 2022 -- A United States government funding bill for 2023 that includes provisions to authorize US$2 billion in loans to Taiwan, but not grants, to buy weapons from the U.S. cleared the Congress on Friday following a House of Representatives vote.
Taiwan reports 19,073 new COVID-19 cases, 40 deaths CNA 23 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan on Friday reported 19,073 new COVID-19 infections and 40 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
President Tsai opens new facilities at Kaohsiung military base CNA 23 Dec 2022 -- President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) on Friday inaugurated new military facilities at a Republic of China (Taiwan) Army base in Kaohsiung, saying they provide "a better living environment" for military personnel based there.
U.S. rallies allies to preserve Taiwan Strait stability: Blinken CNA 23 Dec 2022 -- United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Thursday singled out China as the country's only competitor that can reshape the international order, but said that the U.S. has rallied allies to meet the challenges posed by Beijing, including by preserving peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.
Mainland has 'no obstacle' to resume direct exchanges on cross-Straits travel Global Times 23 Dec 2022 -- There is an increasing need among Taiwan compatriots for cross-Straits travel ahead of the Spring Festival and we are willing to take optimized measures and do our best to meet the demand, Zhu Fenglian, the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson, said on Friday in response to a transportation plan by Taiwan island for the upcoming festival.
Taiwan reports 19,891 new COVID-19 cases, 41 deaths CNA 22 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan on Thursday reported 19,891 new COVID-19 infections and 41 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
President Tsai to convene high-level national security meetings CNA 22 Dec 2022 -- President Tsai Ing-wen (蔡英文) said Wednesday evening that she would begin holding meetings with high-level officials starting next week to discuss Taiwan's economy and national security.
PLA reconnaissance drone crosses Taiwan Strait median line CNA 22 Dec 2022 -- A Chinese reconnaissance unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait between 6 a.m. Wednesday, and 6 a.m. Thursday, according to the Ministry of National Defense (MND).
China's Army Has Dispatched 39 Aircraft, 3 Ships to Taiwan Strait, Taiwanese Defense Ministry Says Sputnik 22 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan's defense ministry said on Thursday that the island's armed forces registered 39 aircraft and three ships of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) approaching the island in the past 24 hours.
Taiwan reports 19,155 new COVID-19 cases, 27 deaths CNA 21 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan on Wednesday reported 19,155 new COVID-19 infections and 27 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
U.S. funding bill allows loan, but not grant, to Taiwan to buy weapons CNA 21 Dec 2022 -- A United States government funding bill for 2023 unveiled Tuesday authorized US$2 billion in loans to Taiwan to buy weapons from the U.S., but did not include grants for similar purposes that had been approved in a separate defense bill.
E-2K aircraft landing incident likely caused by pilot error: Source CNA 21 Dec 2022 -- A bad landing by an Air Force E-2K airborne early warning (AEW) aircraft during a training mission last month was likely caused by pilot error, a military source told CNA on Wednesday.
Increasing Chinese military presence spotted in waters off eastern Taiwan CNA 21 Dec 2022 -- There has been increased military activity by China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) in waters off eastern Taiwan since earlier this month, a military source told CNA on Wednesday.
Taiwan reports 17,131 new COVID-19 cases, 18 deaths CNA 20 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan on Tuesday reported 17,131 new COVID-19 infections and 18 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan military to lengthen boot camp training for voluntary soldiers CNA 20 Dec 2022 -- New voluntary military recruits will undergo more intense and longer boot camp training from next year in order to boost their combat preparedness, the Ministry of National Defense (MND) announced on Tuesday.
China firmly opposes any official contact between EU, Taiwan Press TV 20 Dec 2022 -- China has strongly warned the European Union (EU) against establishing any official contact with Chinese Taipei, urging the bloc to "act prudently" to avoid harming China-EU relations.
Chinese Foreign Ministry Calls on EU to Treat Taiwan Issue Cautiously Sputnik 20 Dec 2022 -- China strongly opposes any form of official interaction between the European Union and Taiwan and calls on the bloc to treat the Taiwan issue cautiously as well respect the One China policy, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said on Tuesday.
Chinese Foreign Ministry Slams Guatemala's Plan to Hold Taiwan Summit Sputnik 20 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan is an unalienable part of China, and any attempts to make the island into a separate diplomatic actor run contrary to international norms, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said on Tuesday, commenting on Guatemala's plans to hold a meeting of "Taiwan-friendly" countries.
Taiwan probes TikTok amid fears of 'digital opium' targeting island's youngsters Radio Free Asia 20 Dec 2022 -- Authorities in Taiwan are investigating TikTok amid reports the Chinese-owned social media platform set up an illegal subsidiary on the democratic island, as analysts warned that widespread use of the app could result in Beijing feeding "digital opium" to the island's children and young people.
Taiwan reports 10,365 new COVID-19 cases, 23 deaths CNA 19 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan on Monday reported 10,365 new COVID-19 infections and 23 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan drugstores almost run out of Panadol due to mass buying CNA 19 Dec 2022 -- There is currently a shortage of the painkiller Panadol in Taiwan due to unusual bulk purchasing and in response the government has contacted drug stores asking them to accelerate supply and meet market demand, Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) head Victor Wang (王必勝) said Monday.
Taiwan reports 15,123 new COVID-19 cases, 30 deaths CNA 18 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan on Sunday reported 15,123 new COVID-19 infections and 30 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Overhaul of F-5 jet ejection seats to be completed by yearend: Source CNA 17 Dec 2022 -- The Air Force will finish installing new ejection seats on all of its F-5 fighter jets by the end of this year and hopefully put an end to a long-standing safety issue that has killed at least two pilots, a source in the military said on Saturday.
Taiwan reports 15,625 new COVID-19 cases, 40 deaths CNA 17 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan's Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) reported 15,625 new COVID-19 infections on Saturday, all but 161 of which were domestic cases, as well as 40 deaths from the disease.
Taiwan reports 15,416 new COVID-19 cases, 24 deaths CNA 16 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan's Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) reported 15,416 new COVID-19 infections Friday, all but 100 of which were domestic cases, and 24 deaths from the disease.
U.S. Senate passes annual defense bill with Taiwan provisions CNA 16 Dec 2022 -- The U.S. Senate on Thursday passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) 2023, incorporating several Taiwan-related provisions such as annual grants of up to US$2 billion for military-related purposes between 2023 and 2027.
Xi's consolidation of power feeding tensions over Taiwan: analysts Radio Free Asia 16 Dec 2022 -- Chinese leader Xi Jinping's consolidation of power at October's 20th party congress has profound implications for growing military tensions across the Taiwan Strait in the coming year, analysts told a recent online symposium.
Japan's new revised security strategy underlines Taiwan Strait peace CNA 16 Dec 2022 -- The Japanese government listed China as "the greatest strategic challenge" ever to securing the peace and stability of Japan and stressed the importance of the Taiwan Strait for international safety and prosperity in its new revised National Security Strategy approved Friday.
Taiwan report 16,080 new COVID-19 cases, 37 deaths CNA 15 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan reported 16,080 new COVID-19 infections and 37 deaths from the disease on Thursday, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
China Develops Short-Range Missiles Able to Hit Taiwan's Critical Infrastructure, Reports Suggest Sputnik 15 Dec 2022 -- China has developed a series of short-range precision missiles and multiple launch rocket systems able to hit Taiwan's military and government infrastructure, local press reported on Thursday, citing a source close to the People's Liberation Army of China.
Taiwan reports 17,663 new COVID-19 cases, 37 deaths CNA 14 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan on Wednesday reported 17,663 new COVID-19 infections and 37 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
U.S. barred Taiwan from buying parts for local missiles: Ex-military research chief CNA 14 Dec 2022 -- The former head of the Taiwan military's top research unit has disclosed in a recently published memoir that the United States had prevented Taiwan from obtaining some key components for domestic long-range missiles so that Taiwan would be forced to buy U.S.-made ones only.
Taiwan cruise missile could reach Beijing: Ex-military research chief CNA 14 Dec 2022 -- The former head of Taiwan military's top research unit has disclosed in a recently published memoir that the nation's domestically developed supersonic land-attack cruise missile has a range of 1,000 kilometers, meaning it could reach as far as China's capital Beijing.
Taiwan urged to diversify Southbound Policy target nation strategies CNA 14 Dec 2022 -- As Taiwan's government continues to promote its New Southbound Policy (NSP), it needs to develop different approaches for the 18 nations targeted by the policy, Indian scholar Sana Hashmi said Wednesday at a speech in Taipei.
Record PLA bomber group trains near Taiwan island, deterring collusion between secessionists, external forces Global Times 14 Dec 2022 -- The defense authority on the island of Taiwan on Tuesday reported the activities of a whopping 18 H-6 bombers of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA), a record high in terms of PLA bomber sorties in drills around the island in a single day.
China sends 21 aircraft into Taiwan's air defense identification zone Radio Free Asia 14 Dec 2022 -- China has sent a record number of nuclear-capable strategic bombers into Taiwan's air defense identification zone in what analysts say could be a warning against "foreign support" to the island.
Taiwan reports 17,168 new COVID-19 cases, 12 deaths CNA 13 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan on Tuesday reported 17,168 new COVID-19 infections and 12 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
German minister to visit Taiwan in first such trip in 26 years CNA 13 Dec 2022 -- Germany's Federal Minister of Education and Research Bettina Stark-Watzinger is scheduled to visit Taiwan next year, which would be the first time in 26 years that Taiwan will receive a visiting German ministerial-level official.
Taiwan's top envoy to U.S. looks to early results from trade deal talks CNA 13 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan's top envoy to the United States said Monday that she looked forward to more results from a second meeting with the U.S. expected in next year under a new trade initiative between the two countries, which Taipei hopes will result in the two sides signing a trade agreement.
Japanese lawmaker reiterates support for Taiwan's CPTPP bid CNA 13 Dec 2022 -- The chair of a Japanese parliamentary group promoting Taiwan-Japan ties reiterated his support for Taipei's bid to join a Tokyo-led trade bloc during a meeting with Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai (陳其邁) in Tokyo on Monday night, while calling for closer Taiwan-Japan exchanges on all fronts.
Chinese, US officials conclude candid talks, agree to properly handle Taiwan question Global Times 13 Dec 2022 -- Senior Chinese and US officials met in North China's Hebei from Sunday to Monday, with both sides saying that the latest meeting was candid, in-depth and constructive, and agreeing to maintain communication, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said on Monday. Chinese experts believed that the continuing communication and cooperation between the world's two largest economies, which clearly benefits the world, should be based on taking each other's core interests into account, while warning of duplicity in Washington's China policy.
Taiwan considers extending TikTok ban to private sector Radio Free Asia 12 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan may extend the ban on Chinese video-sharing service TikTok to the private sector after banning the app from being installed and used in government offices and on public devices over security concerns.
Taiwan reports 10,853 new COVID-19 cases, 31 deaths CNA 12 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan's Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) reported 10,853 new COVID-19 infections on Monday, all but 29 of which were domestic cases, and 31 deaths from the disease.
Navy set to launch third domestically made corvette by year-end CNA 12 Dec 2022 -- The construction of the nation's third domestically built Tuo Chiang-class corvette has been on schedule with the Navy expected to hold a launch ceremony for the new warship before the end of this year, a military source told CNA Monday.
Taiwan Announces Plans for Five 'Carrier-Killer' Corvettes Loaded With Supersonic Anti-Ship Missiles Sputnik 12 Dec 2022 -- The Taipei government's military has announced plans to upgrade the last five of the scheduled Tuo Chiang-class corvettes to carry more powerful anti-ship missiles capable of threatening China's prized aircraft carriers.
China denounces senior Japanese official's Taiwan visit; 'irrational move to undermine stability in Straits' Global Times 12 Dec 2022 -- China on Monday expressed strong dissatisfaction and firm opposition to the visit of a senior official of Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) to Taiwan island and his irresponsible remarks on China during the visit, which came amid Japan's recent actions to expand its military, citing the so-called China threat as an excuse.
Taiwan reports 14,084 new COVID-19 cases, 38 deaths CNA 11 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan's Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) reported 14,084 new COVID-19 infections Sunday, all but 50 of which were domestic cases, and 38 deaths from the disease.
Taiwan reports 14,284 new COVID-19 cases, 24 deaths CNA 10 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan reported 14,284 new COVID-19 infections, all but 54 were domestic cases, and 24 deaths on Saturday, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
China suspends beer, liquor, beverage imports from Taiwan CNA 10 Dec 2022 -- China has suspended some shipments of beer, liquor and other beverages from Taiwan, Taiwan officials and affected companies confirmed Saturday, just two days after Taiwanese seafood exporters found themselves locked out of the Chinese market.
Taiwan reports 14,359 new COVID-19 cases, 32 deaths CNA 09 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan reported 14,359 new COVID-19 infections and 32 deaths on Friday, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
U.S. official denies support for Ukraine causing Taiwan arms backlog CNA 09 Dec 2022 -- The United States' efforts to support Ukraine with military equipment is "in no way" obstructing its plans to provide arms for Taiwan, Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks said Thursday at a security forum.
Use U.S. grant to upgrade Taiwan's military command systems: Experts CNA 09 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan should capitalize on a proposed US$10 billion grant set out in the U.S.' 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to upgrade its automated command and control systems, a military expert said Friday.
U.S. hints at Indo-Pacific military buildup to deter attack on Taiwan CNA 09 Dec 2022 -- Washington is likely to bolster its military forces in the Indo-Pacific next year to create a "more lethal" and "more resilient" deterrence to any Chinese plans to take control of Taiwan militarily, according to a senior U.S. Department of Defense official.
US House Passes National Defense Authorization Act, Including $10B for Taiwan VOA 09 Dec 2022 -- Paving the way for the U.S. defense budget to hit a record $858 billion next year, the U.S. House of Representatives has passed legislation that could provide as much as $10 billion in aid to Taiwan over five years.
US House passes bill to spend US$12 billion in military aid to Taiwan CNA 09 Dec 2022 -- The United States House of Representatives on Thursday passed the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that authorizes up to US$12 billion in grants and loans to Taiwan over the next five years to buy U.S. weapons.
Taiwan calls TikTok 'harmful to national security' Radio Free Asia 08 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan has joined several U.S. states in banning TikTok from communication devices in the public sector on security concerns over the world's most downloaded app.
Taiwan reports 15,283 new COVID-19 cases, 37 deaths CNA 08 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan reported 15,283 new COVID-19 infections and 37 deaths on Thursday, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
US proposes bill to boost Chinese Taipei military with up to $10 billion in funding Press TV 08 Dec 2022 -- The military of the United States has proposed a bill that envisages up to $10 billion in funding to strengthen the military and security capabilities of Chinese Taipei, in open defiance of China, which has sovereignty over the self-ruled Island.
US increases arms sales to Taiwan island, 'only consolidates morale for Chinese reunification' Global Times 08 Dec 2022 -- The US, in consecutive provocative moves over the Taiwan question, has in the past few days approved another arms sale to the island of Taiwan and advanced its National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) through Congress, which includes direct military loans and fast-track weapon sales.
China strongly opposes US arms sale to Taiwan: Defense Spokesperson PLA Daily 08 Dec 2022 -- China is strongly dissatisfied with and firmly opposed to the US's recent announcement that it will sell military aircraft parts and related equipment worth$428 million to Taiwan, and has lodged solemn representations with the US side, said Senior Colonel Tan Kefei, spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of National Defense, in a written statement on Thursday.
China's Defense Ministry Accuses US of Escalating Situation Around Taiwan Sputnik 08 Dec 2022 -- The United States has escalated the situation around Taiwan by repeatedly violating the one-China principle, selling arms to the island and sending its officials there, Chinese Defense Ministry spokesman Tan Kefei said on Thursday.
MOFA hails opening of three U.S. state offices in Taiwan in 2022 CNA 08 Dec 2022 -- A Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) official on Thursday hailed the opening of three new offices in Taiwan this year from the U.S. states of Minnesota, Pennsylvania and West Virginia, saying that this demonstrated closer Taiwan-U.S. bonds.
9 PLA aircraft cross Taiwan Strait median line CNA 08 Dec 2022 -- A total of nine Chinese military aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and another two entered Taiwan's air defense identification zone (ADIZ) between 6 a.m. Wednesday, and 6 a.m. Thursday, according to the Ministry of National Defense (MND).
Taiwan reports 16,741 new COVID-19 cases, 26 deaths CNA 07 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan reported 16,741 new COVID-19 infections and 26 deaths on Wednesday, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
US$12 billion in financing for Taiwan to buy weapons in U.S. bill CNA 07 Dec 2022 -- The United States Congress has released the final version of the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that authorizes up to US$12 billion in grants and loans to Taiwan over the next five years to buy U.S. weapons.
U.S., Australia stress commitments to Taiwan in 2+2 talks CNA 07 Dec 2022 -- The United States and Australia have expressed strong opposition to China's "destabilizing" actions in the region and support for upholding peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait in ministerial-level talks.
Taiwan thanks U.S. over latest F-16, C-130 support package CNA 07 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan's government on Wednesday thanked the United States after it approved the sale of up to US$428 million worth of spare parts to replenish stocks for Taiwan's military aircraft and support its air defenses amid the Chinese military threat.
Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States - Aircraft Non-Standard Spare Parts DSCA 06 Dec 2022 -- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States of the expansion of the Cooperative Logistics Supply Support Arrangement for stock replenishment supply of aircraft non-standard spare parts and related equipment for an estimated cost of $98 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.
Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States - Aircraft Standard Spare Parts DSCA 06 Dec 2022 -- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the United States of the expansion of the Cooperative Logistics Supply Support Arrangement for stock replenishment supply of aircraft standard spare parts and related equipment for an estimated cost of $330 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.
Taiwan reports 16,034 new COVID-19 cases, 22 deaths CNA 06 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan on Tuesday reported 16,034 new COVID-19 infections and 22 deaths, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Taiwan weapons developer among world's top 100 arms producers in 2021: Survey CNA 06 Dec 2022 -- The National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST) was named for the first time as one of the world's top 100 arms producers in a survey published Monday by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI).
2-week reservist program to be expanded to 22,000 men in 2023: Military CNA 06 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan's dual-track reservist training program will be continued next year with 7,000 more reservists required to take part in the more intensive two-week training regimen that began earlier this year, the Ministry of National Defense (MND) said in a report released on Tuesday.
US' latest arms sale proposal to Taiwan island may hinder China-US military exchanges; little help for secessionists to gain a military edge Global Times 06 Dec 2022 -- The provocative arms sale to China's Taiwan region will make it more difficult to restore China-US military cooperation and exchanges, Chinese experts warned Tuesday, following reports that Washington has proposed arms sale to the secessionist Taiwan authorities, less than a month after two heads of state met face-to face in Bali, when US President Joe Biden reaffirmed that the US does not support "Taiwan independence," and has no intention to engage in conflict with China.
Chinese Army Able to Deter Any External Support of Taiwan Independence: Defense Ministry Sputnik 06 Dec 2022 -- The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) has the ability and confidence to defeat any attempts by outside forces to organize Taiwan's independence, Chinese Defense Ministry spokesman Tan Kefei said on Tuesday.
Gov't, KMT bicker over use of 'Taiwan, China' in Chinese patent requests CNA 06 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan's government and the opposition Kuomintang (KMT) traded recriminations Tuesday over the fact that many state-run enterprises apply for patents in China using the designation "Taiwan, China."
China Urges Australia to Stop Sending 'Wrong Signals' to Taiwan: Official Sputnik 06 Dec 2022 -- Australia should adhere to the internationally recognized one-China principle and stop sending misleading signals to "separatist forces" on the island of Taiwan, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said on Tuesday.
Taiwan reports 10,244 new COVID-19 cases, 22 deaths CNA 05 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan on Monday reported 10,244 new COVID-19 infections and 22 deaths, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Canada Plans to Increase Traffic of Warships Through Taiwan Strait: Foreign Minister Sputnik 05 Dec 2022 -- Canada intends to send more warships to pass through the Taiwan Strait to demonstrate that the waters claimed by China are international, Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly said on Monday.
Taiwanese Follow Chinese Protests with Interested but Muted Support VOA 05 Dec 2022 -- For two weeks, small groups of Taiwanese have gathered in support of a wave of protests across China against the government's strict COVID-19 restrictions and ongoing lockdowns in the largest movement of civil disobedience since the 1989 Tiananmen Square protests.
Polish parliamentarian group arrives in Taiwan CNA 05 Dec 2022 -- A delegation of Polish lawmakers led by Waldemar Andzel, chair of Polish-Taiwanese Parliamentarian Group, arrived in Taiwan Monday for a five-day trip, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).
Taiwan reports 13,019 new COVID-19 cases, 29 deaths CNA 04 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan on Sunday reported 13,019 new COVID-19 infections and 29 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
8 PLA warplanes detected crossing Taiwan Strait median line CNA 04 Dec 2022 -- A total of 25 Chinese military aircraft and four naval ships have been detected around Taiwan from 6 a.m. Saturday to 6 a.m. Sunday, including eight airplanes that had crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and another two that entered Taiwan's air defense identification zone (ADIZ).
Taiwan reports 13,152 new COVID-19 cases, 33 deaths CNA 03 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan on Saturday reported 13,152 new COVID-19 infections and 33 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Vietnam's labeling of Taiwan's military drill 'unacceptable': MOFA CNA 03 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan on Friday rejected Vietnam's characterization of its recent live-fire drill around Taiping Island, or Itu Aba, as an "illegal" activity, saying its claim to the small island in the South China Sea was "unquestionable" and that it was part of the Republic of China's (ROC) territory.
U.S., EU express concern over China's 'provocations' in Taiwan Strait CNA 03 Dec 2022 -- The United States and the European Union have expressed concern over China's "provocations" in the Taiwan Strait, which they said increased the risk of crisis in the region, after their bilateral meetings in Washington, D.C. on Friday.
Taiwan reports 14,081 new COVID-19 cases, 29 deaths CNA 02 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan on Friday reported 14,081 new COVID-19 infections and 29 deaths from the disease, according to the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC).
Court declares asset seizures in two high-profile cases constitutional CNA 02 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan's Constitutional Court on Friday ruled that amended confiscation rules under the Criminal Code were constitutional following two requests for an interpretation from individuals linked to two high-profile criminal investigations.
Biden, Macron reaffirm need for peace, stability across Taiwan Strait CNA 02 Dec 2022 -- U.S. President Joe Biden and his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron have reiterated the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and expressed concerns over the challenges posted by China.
Taiwan reports 15,651 new COVID-19 cases, 53 deaths CNA 01 Dec 2022 -- Taiwan's Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC) reported 15,651 new COVID-19 infections Thursday, all but 56 were domestically transmitted, and 53 deaths from the disease.

NEWSLETTER

Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list

Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

December 2022 - Taiwan Special Weapons News