The Republic of China (ROC, Taiwan) has released its 18th National Defense Report (2025), published in accordance with Article 30 of the National Defense Act. The document, periodically issued by the Ministry of National Defense (MND), is intended to inform citizens about the status and outcomes of national defense administration, as well as the combat readiness of the ROC Armed Forces.

The objectives outlined in the Report are explicit: to ensure the availability of “Agile and Resilient ROC Armed Forces Resolutely Defending Our Nation”, to develop agile response capabilities, and to advance whole-of-society defence resilience in coordination with other government agencies.

Despite the growing threat to national security - exclusively identified as the People’s Republic of China (PRC) - the strategic mission of the ROC Armed Forces remains unchanged. The development of combat capabilities for “multi-domain denial and resilient defence” remains central to Taiwan’s military strategy of “resolute defense and multi-domain deterrence.” This approach relies on a strategy of erosion and the systematic application of asymmetric warfare concepts. Given the island’s limited geographic depth and its proximity to the primary threat, such a strategy can only be sustained through the integration of national-level capabilities and by maintaining the highest levels of combat readiness in peacetime, enabling rapid responses to coercion, harassment, and potential intrusions.

In support of this national strategy, the MND has, in recent years, pursued new ways of thinking and operational approaches to build asymmetric and resilient capabilities. The 2025 National Defense Report reflects this sustained effort. The document is structured into 4 main sections: Strategic Environment; Resolute National Defense; Cornerstone of Peace; and National Defense Management. In the latter, particular emphasis is placed on the role of the ROC Armed Forces in supporting whole-of-government strategic objectives.

A strong focus is placed on the human dimension of defense. The MND highlights force management reform, professional logistics readiness, manpower stability, and the strengthening of military discipline as key priorities, backed by the allocation of significant resources.

While acknowledging Taiwan’s heavy reliance on its alliance with the United States, Minister of National Defense Wellington Koo (Koo Li-hsiung) underscores that “the national defense of the ROC is not solely the responsibility of service members, but depends on the collective effort of society as a whole to protect the nation and defend the homeland.”

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