Taiwan should greatly increase its military budget and extend its conscription duration to one year. Furthermore, women should also be included in mandatory military service. That was the word from former US Defense Secretary Mark Esper on Tuesday.
Esper is leading a delegation from Washington-based think tank the Atlantic Council on a four-day visit to Taiwan. He was once US defense secretary under President Donald Trump.
Esper says Taiwan should invest particularly in its asymmetrical warfare capabilities. That’s as Taiwan faces military threats from its large neighbor China.
China claims Taiwan as part of its territory and has not ruled out taking the island by force.
Esper adds Taiwan should also strengthen its ability to mobilize reserve forces and to synchronize its defense systems with allies like the United States.
Responding to Esper’s comments, Premier Su Tseng-Chang on Wednesday said since President Tsai Ing-wen came into office, the government has worked to strengthen national security. He says the government will continue to review and improve the training and preparation of military personnel.