Recent tensions between Taiwan and China have prompted the United States to reaffirm its commitment to supply “unlimited” lethal weapons to Taiwan as a deterrent against possible Chinese attacks.
A US military expert has proposed building artificial reefs off the coast of Taiwan to hinder amphibious landings and hinder Chinese naval operations.
Artificial Reefs: A Strategic Obstacle
These inexpensive and sustainable structures would not only be a physical barrier to Chinese ships, but would also provide tourism and ecological benefits by promoting tourism and conserving marine life.
The idea of artificial reefs presented a terrifying scenario for enemy ships, as they would be trapped during the battle, slowing their operations and offering Taiwan options to harass raiders.
United States military commitment
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has confirmed the provision of “significant” military assistance to Taiwan to counter the Chinese threat. This assistance, authorized by Congress, would be through a Presidential Reduction Authority (PDA), similar to the support given to Ukraine.
An effective preventive strategy
Experts say the artificial reefs will prevent China from rapidly mobilizing its forces toward the island and make an amphibious assault more difficult. Furthermore, they would present a deterrent to other Chinese naval operations near Taiwan.
By running aground on these reefs, enemy ships would become stationary targets and saturate the area of operations, preventing the Chinese from attempting an amphibious assault.
Are the United States and China Heading for Tension Over Taiwan?
Additional Challenges for Taiwan
While artificial reefs are an effective defensive measure, Taiwan faces additional challenges. China would seek to demoralize Taiwan’s military through air, ground and naval attacks as well as bombardment of strategic targets on the ground.
Regardless of the odds, Taiwan would need to maintain its ground forces long enough to receive American or Japanese military support and jointly confront the Chinese threat.
The situation in the Taiwan Strait is critical and will require a forceful response to protect the integrity of Taiwan. The construction of artificial reefs and the supply of weapons by the United States are some of the elements needed to maintain stability in the region and prevent China from invading.
However, it is important to emphasize that Taiwan’s defense cannot rely solely on reef building and foreign military aid. Additional measures will be needed to strengthen ground forces and counter enemy attacks both in the air and at sea.
