Taiwan is preparing to push its defence spending above T$1 trillion ($31 billion) for the first time.
Pressure from China and calls from the United States drive Taipei to strengthen its military.
The cabinet is expected to propose a 16% increase for 2027, taking the budget beyond T$1.1 trillion.
The proposal, due to be unveiled on August 20, would keep defence spending above 3% of Taiwan’s economic output.
Why the sharp increase? China’s military has been operating around Taiwan almost daily, while Beijing continues to claim the self-ruled island as its territory.
Taiwan rejects those claims and has made military modernisation a central priority.
President Lai Ching-te has embraced Washington’s calls for greater defence spending.
Taiwan is also developing weapons at home, including submarines.
Drills For Potential China Attack
The urgency is playing out during Taiwan’s annual Han Kuang war games.
Lai said that every exercise builds valuable experience and confidence, arguing that “every bit of solid preparation in peacetime” strengthens the island’s security.
The drills have included simulated chemical attacks.
Troops practising the rapid decontamination of soldiers, tanks and armoured vehicles.
With China rapidly expanding its own military, Taiwan appears to be betting that stronger preparation can help.
Keep a dangerous standoff from becoming something far worse.
