By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Taiwan’s National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST) has mass-produced the Ching Tien hypersonic cruise missile, boasting a range exceeding 2,000 km and potentially reaching targets as far as Hohhot, Inner Mongolia. To improve deployment, the military is procuring mobile launch vehicles, primarily from Czech manufacturer Tatra, for these missiles. This initiative, including the “Feiji No. 2” project, represents a significant advancement in Taiwan’s deep-strike capabilities, marking the first deployment of such long-range strategic weapons. The Ching Tien system’s extended range is achieved through upgrades from the earlier Ching Tien supersonic cruise missile.
Read the original article here
Taiwan reportedly building hypersonic missiles capable of striking targets north of Beijing represents a significant escalation in the ongoing tensions between Taiwan and China. The development of such weaponry suggests a determined effort by Taiwan to enhance its defensive capabilities and potentially deter a Chinese invasion. This move dramatically alters the strategic landscape, forcing a reassessment of the conventional wisdom regarding regional power dynamics.
The potential range of these missiles, extending beyond Beijing, is particularly noteworthy. This capability suggests a focus not just on immediate defense but also on the ability to strike high-value targets deep within mainland China. The implications of this are far-reaching, suggesting Taiwan isn’t merely preparing for a defensive war but is considering the potential for preemptive or retaliatory strikes against critical infrastructure.
Naturally, there’s speculation about the targets north of Beijing. While Beijing itself is a crucial target, the extended range suggests other high-value targets could be within reach – perhaps military installations, command centers, or even strategically important infrastructure such as dams. The targeting decision would, of course, depend on the precise capabilities of the missiles and the overall strategic objectives.
The development of hypersonic missiles raises a myriad of questions. Is this a purely defensive measure, or does it signal a more offensive posture? Is the investment in this technology justified given the significant cost and complexity? Considering Taiwan’s existing defenses and its relationship with the United States, one must question if this is merely a deterrent or a signal of a growing willingness to engage in more aggressive forms of warfare.
The potential response from China is another major consideration. China’s military modernization has been swift and aggressive, and any perceived threat to its sovereignty is likely to be met with a forceful response. A countermeasure could involve a dramatic increase in military deployments, potentially leading to an even more volatile regional situation. The possibility of an arms race, with both sides constantly seeking to outmaneuver the other, is a very real concern.
The discussion of nuclear weapons inevitably arises in such conversations. The question of whether Taiwan is secretly developing nuclear capabilities remains unresolved, but the mere possibility adds another layer of complexity to the already tense geopolitical climate. The thought of nuclear weapons in the region throws a chilling shadow over the discussion. The presence of even a few hypersonic missiles capable of delivering conventional warheads, however, presents a formidable deterrent, potentially influencing China’s calculations before initiating any action.
The feasibility of a Chinese invasion is a heavily debated topic. While China possesses a significant numerical advantage in military personnel, the realities of a cross-strait invasion are complex. Difficulties in amphibious landings, the formidable Taiwanese defensive capabilities, and the significant logistical challenges associated with such a large-scale operation all suggest that a successful invasion is far from guaranteed.
The debate also includes the question of whether such an invasion would even occur. A blockade is a far more plausible scenario, cutting off Taiwan’s supply lines and isolating it from the world. But even a blockade would invite significant international response. Such an act would have grave economic and geopolitical consequences for China, a significant factor to consider.
Ultimately, the development of these reported hypersonic missiles represents a major shift in the regional balance of power. It’s a game-changer, a sign that Taiwan is not merely reacting to perceived threats but actively shaping the future of its defense strategy. The implications are complex and far-reaching, demanding a comprehensive understanding of the regional dynamics and a keen awareness of the potential for escalation. The coming years will be critical in determining how this new reality plays out.