China-Taiwan military strength compared

China spends more on defence than any country except the U.S. and could draw on a huge range of capabilities in any military confrontation with Taiwan


CHINA: Has claimed Taiwan through its “one China” policy since 1949, and has vowed to bring it under Beijing’s rule, by force if necessary

CHINA
Fuzhou
Matsu Is. (TAIWAN)
Kinmen (TAIWAN)
Taiwan Strait median line
Taipei
TAIWAN
100km 60 miles

TAIWAN: Some Western experts predict Taipei could at best aim to slow Chinese attack while waiting for outside help, which could come from U.S.


ACTIVE DUTY PERSONNEL	= 100,000
2,035,000      169,000

RESERVE PERSONNEL	= 100,000
510,000	       1,657,000

MAIN BATTLE TANKS 	= 200
4,800	        650

ARTILLERY PIECES 	= 200
9,550	       2,093

AIRCRAFT 		= 100
3,3348+		691+
	
SUBMARINES 	        = 5
59              4

NAVAL SHIPS*            = 5
86              26

*Only includes principal surface combatants (aircraft carriers, cruisers, destroyers and frigates) 

Source: BBC/The Military Balance 2023, IISS


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