Taiwan wants to train an effective reserve force. Will live-fire drills do the job?

South China Morning PostCenter-RightEN 1 min read 100% complete by Lawrence ChungFebruary 7, 2026 at 07:00 AM

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Taiwan is integrating one-year conscripts into frontline combined-arms operations, starting this year, to strengthen its defense capabilities against potential Chinese aggression. Conscripts will be organized into battalion-level units and participate in the high-intensity Lien Yung live-fire exercises alongside professional soldiers. This initiative aims to transform conscripts from static garrison personnel into active participants in combined-arms combat scenarios, involving air, naval, and ground forces. The shift marks a departure from previous practices and seeks to create a more resilient and integrated fighting force. However, the program faces challenges, including concerns about the inexperience of conscripts, training capacity limitations, and waning public resolve.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

air force 40% army 40% navy 40% Taiwanese cabinet 60% Lien Yung three-service live-fire exercises 70% Beijing 70% Taiwan ×390%

Keywords

military training 90% reserve force 80% live-fire drills 80% conscripts 70% combined-arms operations 70% battlefield conditions 60% war-fighting 50% military resilience 40% defence 40%