U.S. Naval War College Digital Commons

CMSI Note 26: Easy Infiltration: The Rise of PRC Small Boat Landings on Taiwan

Key Takeaways: The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) appears to have a doctrine that calls for infiltrating undercover operatives into Taiwan to collect intelligence and to conduct special missions, according to its textbooks. Research shows that cross-Strait small boat landings seem to have begun in 2021, and at least eight Chinese men have been arrested on Taiwan in connection with these cases. Each reported landing occurred at a sensitive location. Five of the eight happened on a known invasion beach. The other three happened at ports and river deltas believed to be of high interest to war planners in the PLA. None of the reported incidents occurred near Hsinchu, the most likely place for a civilian to land a small boat because it has the closest proximity to China, a suitable port, and long beaches. Taiwanese national security officials have said the landings seem to be associated with Taiwan’s annual war games and military exercises. There are many possible explanations for these landings, such as smuggling, espionage, or human trafficking. Reconnaissance by the PLA, however, cannot be ruled out. American cooperation with Taiwan’s armed forces on military engineering, counter infiltration, and coastal defense may enable the Taiwanese military to enhance its preparedness for potential infiltration. Actions such as closing vulnerable sections of Taiwan’s coast to the public, establishing coast watcher communities, and fortifying coastal garrisons in peacetime could reinforce Taiwan’s defenses against infiltration and help to mitigate this potential threat.

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