TAIPEI (October 11, 2025)— Chinese authorities have warned that Taiwan’s efforts to strengthen its defense through the newly announced “Taiwan Shield” (T-Dome) project could heighten regional tensions, accusing the Lai Ching-te administration of pursuing independence through military means.
During his National Day address, President Lai Ching-te revealed plans to accelerate the development of the T-Dome, a comprehensive air defense system designed to provide multi-layered protection, advanced threat detection, and effective interception against potential attacks. Lai emphasized that the system aims to safeguard Taiwan’s security and maintain peace in the region.
In response, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs held a press briefing on October 10. Spokesman Kuo Chia-kun criticized the initiative, claiming that Taiwan’s actions to “seek independence by force” and “resist unification by force” would only push the island into a “dangerous and treacherous” path.
Kuo reiterated Beijing’s stance that peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait can only be preserved by adhering to the “one-China principle” and opposing any form of Taiwan independence. He also reaffirmed China’s long-standing opposition to U.S. arms sales to Taiwan and military cooperation between Washington and Taipei, calling Beijing’s position on the matter “consistent and clear.”
Meanwhile, Taiwan’s government maintains that the T-Dome initiative is a defensive measure aimed at protecting its sovereignty and people amid growing military pressure from Beijing.