Taiwan's Defense Ministry is calling for enhanced military reconnaissance capabilities and improved rapid response readiness in preparation for potential contingencies.



The ministry submitted its Quadrennial Defense Review to Taiwan's legislature, called the Legislative Yuan, on Wednesday.



The review expresses alarm over China's military buildup and its so-called "gray zone" tactics, which fall short of an armed attack but gradually wear down Taiwanese troops.



The report says China could deploy multiple naval vessels to rapidly blockade Taiwan's ports and sea lanes or transition to an attack. It adds that, to counter this, the Taiwanese military will conduct practical exercises to strengthen reconnaissance capabilities and improve rapid response readiness.



The report calls for the military and private businesses to work together in developing drones and other equipment and enhancing asymmetric capabilities to counter attacks with low-cost, agile weaponry.



It also calls for mobilizing citizens to protect key infrastructure and bolstering society's overall defense.



Defense Minister Wellington Koo told reporters before attending the legislative session that the military must be ready to act as soon as it detects warning signs. He vowed to verify and advance its rapid response capabilities.