China is planning to achieve its military readiness against Taiwan by 2020. That’s according to a white paper released on Tuesday by Taiwan’s defense ministry.
Despite the warming ties across the Taiwan Strait, the report says China has adopted a carrot-and-stick approach and continued strengthening its military power.
Defense ministry official Wu Bao-kueng explained. "When it comes to global security, the [reality] of a 'one superpower and several great powers' led by the US has remained true over the past two years," said Wu.
"In the Asia Pacific region, [Taiwan] is facing maritime and territorial disputes in the East China Sea and the South China Sea. In addition, China’s rapid military expansion has also posed a threat to Taiwan’s national security."
The report says China has upgraded its early warning and reconnaissance systems. There are also upgrades for warships, anti-air missiles, long-rang multiple launch rocket systems, third-generation jet fighters and amphibious assault vehicles.