Theater Missile Defense in Taiwan

Enhancing independence from mainland China or jeopardizing the national security of Taiwan?

Essay , 2008 , 11 Pages , Grade: 1,7

Politics - Region: Far East

Das Thema Raketenabwehr wird vorrangig mit den amerikanischen Stationierungsplänen für Polen und die Tschechische Republik in Verbindung gebracht. Trotz vergleichbarer sicherheitspolitischer Relevanz spielt das ebenfalls von den USA unterstütze Raketenabwehrsystem auf Taiwan in den westlichen Medien keine wesentliche Rolle. Während sich Taiwan besseren Schutz vor chinesischen Raketenangriffen verspricht, betrachtet China eine taiwanesische Raketenabwehr als einen weiteren Schritt der "abtrünnigen Provinz" in Richtung formale Unabhängigkeit. Die Analyse der regionalen sowie globalen Implikationen ergibt, dass ein Raketenabwehrsystem auf Taiwan geringen militärischen Nutzen aufweist und die Beziehungen zwischen den USA und China destabilisiert.

Inhaltsverzeichnis

• Introduction
• Mainland China-Taiwan Relations
• National security of Taiwan
• Why China cannot let go
• The strategic ambiguity of the USA
• Theater Missile Defense in Taiwan
• Conclusion
• Literature

Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte

This article examines the potential implications of a Taiwanese Theater Missile Defense (TMD) system, focusing on its impact on Taiwan's national security and its ability to enhance Taiwanese independence. The article explores the complex dynamics of the Taiwan Strait, considering the perspectives of China, the United States, and Taiwan itself.

• The strategic implications of a Taiwanese TMD system on regional and global security.
• The role of the TMD system in deterring potential military action from mainland China.
• The impact of a TMD system on the political dynamics of the Taiwan Strait, including the potential for escalation or conflict.
• The relationship between a TMD system and the pursuit of Taiwanese independence.
• The role of the United States in supporting or opposing a Taiwanese TMD system.

Zusammenfassung der Kapitel

The article begins by examining the complex relationship between mainland China and Taiwan, highlighting the historical context and the ongoing debate surrounding Taiwan's status. It then delves into the national security concerns of Taiwan, emphasizing the threat posed by mainland China and the role of the United States as a military protector. The article further explores the reasons why China considers Taiwan an integral part of its territory and the potential consequences of Taiwanese independence. The article then analyzes the 1995-1996 Taiwan Strait crisis, highlighting the role of ballistic missiles in the conflict and the subsequent demands for a TMD system in Taiwan. The article concludes by discussing the potential benefits and drawbacks of a Taiwanese TMD system, considering its impact on regional stability, the pursuit of Taiwanese independence, and the strategic interests of the United States.

Schlüsselwörter

The keywords and focus themes of the text include Taiwan, mainland China, Theater Missile Defense (TMD), national security, independence, strategic ambiguity, Taiwan Strait crisis, ballistic missiles, and the role of the United States.

• College: University of Münster (Institut für Politikwissenschaft)
• Course: Theater Missile Defense in Europe and Asia – A Comparison
• Grade: 1,7
• Author: Benjamin Laag (Author)
• Publication Year: 2008
• Pages: 11
• Catalog Number: V128410
• ISBN (eBook): 9783640347704
• ISBN (Book): 9783640348022
• Language: English
• Tags: Theater, Missile, Defense, Taiwan, Enhancing, China, Taiwan