In his upcoming book, "The Boiling Moat: Urgent Steps to Defend Taiwan," former Deputy National Security Advisor Matt Pottinger and a team of military experts argue for the urgent need for the United States to develop a robust military strategy to counter a potential Chinese invasion of Taiwan. Set to be published in 2024, the book outlines the significant costs associated with such an invasion, predicting that it could lead to a 5-10% loss in U.S. GDP due to Taiwan's critical role in the global semiconductor supply chain. Pottinger emphasizes the necessity of rearming Taiwan's military and complicating Chinese attack efforts by leveraging Taiwan's geographical advantages. He warns of potential maritime blockade tactics that China may employ to strangle Taiwan economically and militarily. [0b865da5]
The book critiques Taiwan's current military readiness, revealing that only 60% of front-line units are combat-ready. It stresses the importance of regional cooperation with allies such as Japan and Australia to bolster defense strategies. Pottinger advocates for Taiwan to adopt an asymmetrical defense strategy, which would allow it to effectively counter a larger Chinese military force. Additionally, the book discusses how shifts in U.S. political landscapes could impact defense strategies and the importance of international cooperation in maintaining stability in the region. [0b865da5]
Pottinger’s insights are echoed in a recent cover story where he discusses the urgent steps needed to prevent a devastating war over Taiwan. He highlights Chinese President Xi Jinping's aggressive stance and the necessity for a formidable system of military deterrence to prevent an attack. The narrative surrounding Taiwan is fraught with historical complexities, as the U.S. aims to support Taiwan's democracy while managing relations with Beijing. The book ultimately calls for diplomatic finesse and a deep understanding of local history and politics to avoid violent conflict. [57cdd8c0]