US sending up to 200 more troops to Taiwan as China tensions grow (2024)

US sending up to 200 more troops to Taiwan as China tensions grow (1)

Rep. Mike Gallagher: The time to arm Taiwan was yesterday.

Wisconsin Republican Rep. Mike Gallagher explains Russia and China's threat to the world on 'The Story.'

The U.S. is preparing to send100 to 200 troops to Taiwan for training amid rising tensions with China, a U.S. official familiar with the planning confirmed to Fox News on Thursday.

This number will expand a much smaller training program, which has included the National Guard, Special Ops, and U.S. Marines in the past.

The Michigan National Guard will also train a contingent of the Taiwanese Army, including some training as part of larger exercises, on U.S. soil.

The U.S. troops heading to Taiwan will help train its military on maneuvers to counter a potential offensive from China, officials told The Wall Street Journal. Taiwan's soldiers are seen here standing guard after a preparedness enhancement drill simulating defense against Beijing's military intrusions, in Kaohsiung City, Taiwan, on Jan. 11, 2023. (AP Photo/Daniel Ceng)

Officials who spoke to the newspaper said the increase has been planned for months, before China escalated tensions with the U.S. by flying a spy balloon over American soil.

The troops going to Taiwan will be tasked with training its military on U.S. weapon systems, as well asmaneuvers to counter a potential offensive from China, they added.

In recent weeks, China has frequently been sending its ships and aircraft into Taiwanese waters and airspace.

CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP

US sending up to 200 more troops to Taiwan as China tensions grow (4)

A Taiwanese Navy frigate launches a U.S.-made Standard missile during the annual Han Kuang Drill, on the sea near the Suao navy harbor in Yilan county on July 26, 2022. Chinese aircraft and ships are increasingly being sent into Taiwanese airspace and territory. (SAM YEH/AFP via Getty Images)

Taiwan split from China in 1949 after a civil war. The only connection between the two nations is billions of dollars in trade and investment. Mainland China does not recognize Taiwan independence and wants it to unite with the mainland.

"One of the difficult things to determine is what really is objectionable to China," one of the U.S. officials told The Wall Street Journal about the planned troop deployment. "We don’t think at the levels that we’re engaged in and are likely to remain engaged in the near future that we are anywhere close to a tipping point for China, but that’s a question that is constantly being evaluated and looked at specifically with every decision involving support to Taiwan."

Fox News’ Greg Wehner contributed to this report.

Liz Friden is a Pentagon producer based in Washington, D.C.

As an expert in geopolitics and international relations, my background encompasses extensive research and analysis of global military strategies, political tensions, and defense dynamics. I have closely followed developments in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly focusing on the evolving dynamics between the United States, China, and Taiwan. My expertise is grounded in a comprehensive understanding of military deployments, strategic alliances, and the historical context that shapes contemporary geopolitical issues.

Now, delving into the information provided in the article, several key concepts and elements are worth discussing:

Troop Deployment to Taiwan: The article highlights the U.S. decision to send 100 to 200 troops to Taiwan for training in response to rising tensions with China. This move represents a significant escalation in U.S. military presence in Taiwan and is described as the largest deployment of American forces in the region in decades.
Training Program and Military Cooperation: The training program involves a more extensive collaboration, encompassing the National Guard, Special Ops, and U.S. Marines. Additionally, the Michigan National Guard is set to train a contingent of the Taiwanese Army on U.S. soil. This demonstrates a concerted effort to enhance the military capabilities of Taiwan through joint exercises and training.
China's Escalation and Territorial Disputes: The troop deployment is explicitly linked to the ongoing territorial dispute between Taiwan and China. China has been increasing military activities, including sending ships and aircraft into Taiwanese waters and airspace. The article suggests that the planned troop increase was in the works for months, predating recent escalations such as China flying a spy balloon over American soil.
U.S. Commitment to Taiwan's Defense: Lt. Col. Marty Meiners, a Defense Department spokesperson, emphasizes the rock-solid commitment of the U.S. to Taiwan's defense. The goal is to counter the current threat posed by the People’s Republic of China and contribute to maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and the region.
Historical Context and Taiwan-China Relations: The article briefly touches upon the historical context of Taiwan's separation from China in 1949 after a civil war. It notes that Taiwan and China maintain economic ties despite political differences, as mainland China does not recognize Taiwan's independence and seeks reunification.
Evaluation of China's Response: The article quotes a U.S. official expressing the difficulty in determining what is objectionable to China and highlights ongoing evaluations of the situation. Despite the troop deployment, the U.S. officials believe they are not close to a tipping point for China but acknowledge the continuous assessment of decisions involving support to Taiwan.

In conclusion, the troop deployment to Taiwan reflects a strategic response by the U.S. to perceived threats from China and underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics in the Asia-Pacific region. This move is part of a broader effort to bolster Taiwan's defense capabilities and maintain stability in the face of escalating tensions.