The rising tensions between Taiwan and China cannot be overlooked. While China routinely threatens to attack Taiwan, understanding the strength of Taiwan's military, its weaponry, and how it fares against the formidable People's Liberation Army (PLA) of China is crucial. Statistics from 2025-2026 draw from Global Firepower and U.S. reports.
Taiwan Armed Forces (Republic of China Armed Forces)
Active troops: Approximately 150,000 to 170,000 (up to 169,000).
Reserve troops: About 1.66 million – ready to be called into action during war.
Total force: Over 1.8 million in wartime.
Source: aajtak
Primary Weaponry
Army: 800-1000 tanks (new M1A2 Abrams arriving), HIMARS rocket systems, anti-tank missiles.
Air Force: 400-500 fighter jets (F-16, Mirage 2000, indigenous IDF).
Navy: 4 submarines, frigates, missile boats, anti-ship missiles (Harpoons).
Others: Patriot missile defense, drones, domestic submarine projects.
Taiwan adopts the porcupine strategy—difficult to attack, like a prickly porcupine. It procures weapons from America. By 2026, the defense budget will exceed 3% of GDP.
China's Military (PLA)
Active troops: Approximately 2 million (world's largest).
Reserve: 500,000 to 1 million.
Total force: 10-12 times larger than Taiwan in number.
Source: aajtak
Primary Weaponry
Army: Thousands of modern tanks (Type 99), millions of vehicles.
Air Force: 3000+ aircraft (J-20 stealth fighters).
Navy: World's largest – 3 aircraft carriers, numerous submarines, hundreds of warships.
Others: Thousands of missiles, hypersonic weapons, nuclear arms.
Comparison: Where Does Taiwan Stand?
Numbers and Scale: China leads vastly – in troops, tanks, aircraft, ships, you name it.
Technology: Taiwan's arms are American, top-notch quality. Yet, China modernizes rapidly.
Strategy: Taiwan, an island, can gain defensive advantages from seas and mountains. It focuses on inflicting major damage using smaller arms. Reserve forces are substantial.
Weakness: Taiwan's size is small; China can impose blockades. However, U.S. support is a significant strength.
Experts Weigh In
If China attacks, it might win but at a steep cost—thousands of soldiers may be lost. By prolonging the war, Taiwan could call for U.S. aid. The nation is boosting its military strength—enhancing conscription and training programs.
