The stand-off across the Straits of Taiwan continues to be one of the most dangerous confrontations in Asia. The technical superiority of the Taiwanese forces has been a major factor in maintaining balance but as mainland China's armed forces modernize Taiwan's advantages are being eroded. In response Taiwan has recently undertaken a major reform of its armed forces. Bringing together a wide range of experts including people who are involved in defence policy making in Taiwan this book presents a comprehensive analysis of these reforms and assesses their likely effectiveness. Chapters are devoted to issues including the Chinese threat the domestic context of reform the role of the United States and specific defence issues making the book an invaluable guide to the changes undertaken and underway within Taiwanâs strategic environment. With a foreword by Taiwanese President Chen Shui-bian Taiwan's Defense Reform will be of interest to policy makers and academics working in this vital strategic area. . Language: English