A new survey released on Wednesday shows that more than 67% of Taiwanese respondents are willing to fight for Taiwan in the event of a Chinese military invasion. According to the survey, which was released by the Institute for National Defense and Security Research, in contrast just over 23% of respondents are unwilling to engage in such a conflict.
The survey results showed mixed views on U.S. involvement in Taiwan’s defense. Over 52% of respondents believe the U.S. would directly intervene to defend Taiwan, while 70% of respondents believe that the U.S. would provide indirect assistance, such as supplying weapons or imposing sanctions. Around 39% of respondents believe that the U.S. Navy would break a Chinese blockade.
Almost 64% of respondents see China’s territorial ambitions as a serious threat. Regarding the potential for a Chinese invasion of Taiwan in the next five years, 61% believe it is unlikely or very unlikely, and 25% think it is possible.
Confidence in Taiwan’s military is divided with more than 47% having faith in its defense capabilities and just under 48% skeptical and not confident in their abilities. Results also showed no clear consensus on Taiwan’s defense budget, with 49% in favor of increasing the budget, and 44% opposed.
The survey was conducted between September 11 and 16, including 1,214 Taiwanese adults, and has a margin of error of ±2.81%.