Taiwan’s Will to Fight Isn’t the Problem

Contrary to some American perceptions, Taiwan does not lack a 'will to fight' against potential Chinese aggression. Evidence from surveys and high demand for civil defense training shows a majority of Taiwanese are willing to defend their country and support conscription. The government has significantly increased its defense budget, expanded indigenous missile production, and made its annual military exercises more realistic. The primary obstacle to a more robust national defense is not public apathy but deep political polarization, with opposition parties obstructing the ruling party's defense reforms.