Joe SaballaApril 18, 2023
1 minute read
The US government has sent around 200 soldiers to Taiwan to provide military training amid increasing tensions with China, according to a report by Taiwan News.
The announcement was made after Chinese fighter jets and warships simulated strikes on the island nation during a recent military drill.
A majority of the troops sent to Taipei are from the US Army and currently stationed at new training centers and reserve brigades of the Taiwanese Armed Forces.
According to the report, the instructors will provide on-the-spot training evaluations and propose improvements to their Taiwanese counterparts.
They will also familiarize Taiwanese soldiers with American combat training programs and courses for future recruitment to better cope with China’s People’s Liberation Army.
Previous Trainings
Prior to the arrival of American instructors, pilots and other personnel from the Taiwanese Air Force underwent a series of trainings at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona.
Naval servicemen from the island nation also often embark on joint training with US Navy personnel.
This is why only 20 percent of the 200 American soldiers sent to Taiwan are from the US Navy and US Air Force.
Most of them are “specialized instructors” that will provide refreshers and further evaluations.
As an enthusiast with a deep understanding of geopolitical dynamics, military strategies, and international relations, my expertise allows me to shed light on the recent development where the US has deployed approximately 200 troops to train Taiwanese soldiers amidst escalating tensions with China. This move reflects a strategic response to the simulated strikes conducted by Chinese fighter jets and warships during a recent military drill near Taiwan.
The deployment of US soldiers to Taipei involves a significant contingent from the US Army, strategically stationed at new training centers and reserve brigades within the Taiwanese Armed Forces. This decision underscores the commitment of the United States to support Taiwan in enhancing its military capabilities, a critical aspect given the geopolitical complexities in the Asia-Pacific region.
The training program involves on-the-spot evaluations by American instructors who will offer insights and suggest improvements to their Taiwanese counterparts. The primary goal is to equip Taiwanese soldiers with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively deal with potential threats from China’s People’s Liberation Army. This comprehensive approach includes familiarizing the Taiwanese military with American combat training programs and courses, further strengthening their preparedness.
Prior to the arrival of American instructors, Taiwanese Air Force personnel, including pilots, underwent extensive training at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona. Additionally, naval servicemen from Taiwan frequently engage in joint training exercises with their counterparts from the US Navy. This collaborative training has been a crucial element in building interoperability and fostering a strong defense partnership.
It's noteworthy that only 20 percent of the 200 American soldiers dispatched to Taiwan are from the US Navy and US Air Force. The majority of the deployed personnel are classified as "specialized instructors," indicating a focus on providing targeted and tailored training to address specific challenges and scenarios.
In conclusion, the deployment of US troops to train Taiwanese soldiers serves as a strategic move to reinforce Taiwan's military capabilities amid growing tensions in the region. This initiative builds upon existing collaborative efforts between the two nations, emphasizing the importance of joint training programs in enhancing the defense capabilities of Taiwan against potential threats from China.
