Balancing Steel and Silk: Small-State Defense Strategy in the Taiwan Strait
“Singapore’s defense relationship with Taiwan is one of the Indo-Pacific’s most discreet yet enduring military partnerships. Since 1975, under Project Starlight, Singapore has conducted large-scale troop training in Taiwan, compensating for its lack of domestic training space. In return, Taiwan benefits from a highly capable partner that boosts its defense readiness without provoking open conflict.”
“Beyond field exercises, the partnership has expanded into the technological domain. Joint research and development in aerospace systems, unmanned aerial vehicles, and radar capabilities has enhanced both nations’ defense sophistication. A 2022 bilateral cyber-defense simulation focused on countering potential electronic warfare tactics by the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) further demonstrated a shared commitment to digital resilience. Singapore’s strengths in systems integration and command infrastructure have proven complementary to Taiwan’s indigenous innovation in areas such as fighter jet development and cyber warfare preparedness.”
Source: Modern Diplomacy