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are receiving particular attention, as the PRC apparently readies its forces for possible
armed action against the ROC. Taiwan, meanwhile, appears to be taking a relatively
relaxed view of the mainland threat, and is not embarking on a significant military
modernization program.
Maritime Dependency
Taiwan is almost completely reliant on the sea for its economic survival,
including the most fundamental commodities: food and energy. With the exception of
the relatively small amount of cargo and goods moving to and from the island by air, the
sea lines of communication (SLOCs) lie at the heart of Taiwan’s existence.
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Access to secure SLOCs is key to the trade that is critical to Taiwan’s economic
well-being. Threats to that access include military concerns (conflicts between regional
countries involving naval and air warfare) and non-military concerns (natural disasters
and accidents, piracy, excessive maritime sovereignty claims by regional states).
The Military Threat from China
Taipei’s anxiety about SLOC security results not only from its dependence on
maritime communications, but also because of Beijing’s oft-stated willingness to employ
the People’s Liberation Army’s (PLA) formidable military force to ensure the island’s
reunification with the mainland. The Chinese Foreign Ministry in April 1995 denied any
threat to freedom of navigation in the South China Sea, claiming that: "While
safeguarding its sovereignty over the Nansha (Spratley) Islands and its maritime rights
and interests, China will fulfill its duty of guaranteeing freedom of navigation for foreign
ships and air routes through and over the international passage of the South China Sea
Convention