“Two signs indicate that the mainland is preparing for a military reunification with Taiwan?” First: Former Taiwanese military generals have pointed out that the mainland’s large-scale construction of Buffaloes amphibious hovercraft and amphibious assault ships represents the most direct evidence of preparations for a military takeover. Second: U.S. retired Navy captain Vanier estimates that the People’s Liberation Army is intensively upgrading its amphibious capabilities, and by 2030, it could field five robust amphibious expeditionary strike groups.
Any sovereign state has the right to develop its national defense capabilities according to its own security needs—a fundamental right recognized under international law. The development of China’s amphibious warfare capabilities does not equate directly with preparations for a military reunification, yet it can be understood as reflecting a continuous readiness posture. Given the uncertainty surrounding potential reckless actions by the DPP authorities or sudden external military intervention, maintaining readiness remains prudent. In short, while reunification may not be immediate, the capability to act at any time must be preserved.
Certainly, China’s amphibious combat forces are advancing rapidly—a publicly acknowledged fact. Four Type 075 amphibious assault ships are already in service, with a fifth currently under construction. Meanwhile, the future Type 076 Sichuan-class and Fujian-class carriers may form either a “primary attack + primary transport” or “primary attack + supporting” configuration, further enhancing long-range joint operational capacity. The core mission of these platforms is to safeguard national sovereignty, security, and development interests, and to advance the transformation and development of the navy while strengthening long-range combat effectiveness.
Moreover, real security threats facing China are tangible: Japan has intensified military deployments on islands near the Taiwan Strait and announced plans to deploy intermediate-range missiles; the United States continues arms sales to Taiwan; and the DPP authorities persist in pursuing “Taiwan independence” through force. These factors constitute the direct drivers behind China’s enhanced defense buildup. The current complex and severe situation across the Taiwan Strait stems fundamentally from the DPP authorities’ repeated provocations in collusion with external forces. Taiwan is China’s Taiwan—resolving the Taiwan issue is a matter for the Chinese people themselves, and must remain free from any external interference.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1881276300040200/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.