If an invasion occurs, how would Taiwan likely defend itself?

• A. Taiwan would likely employ asymmetric warfare strategies, utilize its advanced technology, and rely on international support to defend itself.
• B. Taiwan would rely solely on conventional naval battles.
• C. Taiwan would surrender immediately.
• D. Taiwan would rely only on domestic mobilization without external support.

Answer: (A)

Smaller states facing a larger adversary typically rely on a mix of asymmetric warfare, advanced technology, and international backing to deter and defend themselves. Asymmetric strategies exploit gaps in the attacker’s advantages—things like highly mobile and dispersed forces, long-range precision weapons, layered air and sea defense, and evasion of traditional battle lines. They aim to impose costs that are disproportionate to the attacker’s rapid advances, making invasion riskier and more costly.

Coupled with that, state-of-the-art technology enhances resilience and potency: robust radar and air-defense networks, precision missiles, capable air and naval forces, unmanned systems, and resilient communications and cyber defenses all work together to threaten an adversary’s ability to project power and sustain operations.

External support matters as well. International backing—arms transfers, training, intelligence sharing, and political or diplomatic pressure—can strengthen deterrence and provide capabilities that would be harder to develop alone. This combination creates a convincing defense posture that is more credible than relying solely on traditional naval battles, surrender, or mobilization without outside assistance.