Written by Domingo I-Kwei Yang and Chan-Hsi Wang. This article argues that a new trend is emerging in Taiwan’s debate over defence spending, elevating the economic logic behind defence investment. It identifies the shift from fiscal burden to strategic investment, from buyer to co-production partner with the US and “peace through strength” as an economic strategy that fuses military readiness with an economic agenda.
Written by Shen Ming Shih. This article describes that China’s late-2025 “Justice Mission” exercise around Taiwan functioned more as political signalling than as a credible rehearsal for war. Despite the expanded scale and proximity, the drills exposed operational constraints, ineffective cognitive warfare, and diminished deterrent value while further internationalising the Taiwan Strait and underscoring Taiwan’s readiness.
Written by Dominika Remžová and Dominika Urhová. The article begins with the modernisation of China’s military and its implications for Taiwan’s defense strategies. It emphasises the need for Taiwan to adopt asymmetric warfare approaches amid increasing Chinese military pressures and to reform its armed forces. Taiwan’s reliance on its critical semiconductor industry is also highlighted, showcasing its strategic importance.
Written by Zhekai Li. This article analyses China’s naval expansion in the backdrop of President Lai’s inauguration. The author argues that the launch of China’s third aircraft carrier signifies a significant expansion of its naval capabilities and poses new challenge to the balance of power in the Taiwan Strait. The future of Taiwan rests on restraint by all parties more than ever.
Written by An-Ru Chu. This article explores the performative nature of the cannon drill demonstration at the Shishan (Mt. Lion) Howitzer Front, a popular tourist attraction in Kinmen, in conversation with Island in Between. Unlike the drill or military-related actions performed at other sites, the cannon drill at Kinmen is unique in that it is not performed by soldiers, but exclusively by performers. In addition, the multilayered identities of the performers further complicate people’s engagement with a contested land like Kinmen. The author traces the history of such a performance and argues its linearity in conversation with Kinmen’s Cold War memories.
Written by Raian Hossain. Now that the election results are in, the period of intense suspense and electoral speculation has concluded. The issue of cross-strait relations remains unresolved, as the People’s Republic of China (PRC) insists that the Republic of China (ROC), often known as Taiwan, is a separatist province of the mainland and aims for reunification. For the first time in history, Taiwan has re-elected the same political party to govern the democratic island for a third consecutive term. The election of Lai Ching-te on Saturday signifies a strong counter to the People’s Republic of China’s (PRC) forceful stance and intimidation tactics towards the island. The primary challenge now is how Lai’s new government will maintain its relations with Beijing and navigate the complex triangular dynamics of the US, China, and Taiwan.
