How typhoons and extreme weather could undermine Taiwan Strait combat readiness

Record heat and extreme weather in East Asia this summer highlight climate change as a growing challenge for military planners, particularly concerning the Taiwan Strait. These conditions pose risks to troops and equipment, and can damage critical infrastructure, disrupt training, and divert resources to emergency relief. While militaries might adapt in peacetime, their flexibility could be significantly reduced during wartime, as extreme weather could directly impact combat operations. This situation underscores the potential for climate change to undermine military readiness in key geopolitical areas.