The Penghu archipelago, about 50 km off Taiwan’s southwestern coast, is a key defensive stronghold in the event of a Chinese invasion.

Military experts warn that Beijing would have to seize the Penghu Islands or destroy the long-range missiles stationed there to prevent its fleet from coming under fire as it advanced toward Taiwan’s main island.

Taipei is therefore reinforcing its garrisons, deploying Hsiung Feng III anti-ship missile systems and drone units and conducting regular live-fire exercises.

Alongside its military preparations, Taiwan is investing in civilian resilience. Local authorities and volunteers are preparing for crisis scenarios, including providing first aid, repairing equipment and coping with a naval blockade that could cut off supplies.

China, which has set a goal of being ready to take Taiwan by 2027, has described the islands’ defense buildup as "increasingly absurd and misguided".

Analysts point out, however, that losing Penghu would mean losing control of the entire Taiwan Strait. At the same time, capturing the islands would be an extremely challenging objective for the Chinese military.

(Reuters, Max)