Taiwan to extend its compulsory military service from four months to one year in light of mounting military tensions with China. Tsai Ing-wen made the announcement on Monday.
The recruits will undergo more intense training including shooting exercises and combat instruction used by US forces, the Guardian reported. Other skills imparted will include guarding key infrastructure, enabling regular forces to respond swiftly in the event of an attack by China.
Tsai ing, at a national security meeting, said that Taiwan wanted peace but needed to be able to defend itself. “As long as Taiwan is strong enough, it will be the home of democracy and freedom all over the world, and it will not become a battlefield,” Tsai Ing-wen told the Guardian. “Taiwan wants to tell the world that between democracy and dictatorship, we firmly believe in democracy. Between war and peace, we insist on peace. Let us show the courage and determination to protect our homeland and defend democracy,” she added.
Taiwan's defence ministry on Monday said 71 Chinese air force jets and drones had entered the island’s air defence identification zone within 24 hours. In Taiwan, youth must serve in the military for four months once they turn 18.