INSIDE THE DEPLOYMENT OF US GREEN BERETS IN TAIWAN


By akirschbaum
Green Berets assigned to 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne) conducts vehicle interdiction during Exercise Trojan Footprint 24 near Nea Peramos, Greece, March 3, 2024

In a recent declaration, American Soldiers announced that they would remain permanently stationed in Taiwan despite its implications on regional security and diplomatic ties. The presence of the Green Berets on the territory has the possibility to reshape the geopolitical landscape of East Asia and usher in a new chapter in the relationship between China, the United States, and Taiwan. This move will definitely raise questions about a possible future escalation in the region's ongoing power struggle.Related read: There Used To Be an Army Blue Beret. What Happened To Them?

The Implications of the Green Berets Army in Taiwan

The Green Berets' deployment to Taiwan marks a notable military development for the two countries. This highlights a strategic alliance in both countries’ defense capabilities. These elite military units are known for their superb expertise in counter-insurgency and warfare. This move aligns with the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023. With the Green Berets Army, the two nations plan to focus more on training programs and joint exercises. Given the tension between the island and China, this will improve Taiwan's ability to counterattack any potential threats. Further, the alliance will also help aid in advanced military technologies, such as using the Black Hornet Nano UAV. With the technological advances, the aviation and special forces have now submitted a suggestion to it from the U.S. Since last year, the island's command base, which is in Taoyuan's Longtan District, has been the station of the SOFLE. All U.S. operations personnel are under the control of SOFLE, which oversees all high-value equipment and training materials. Suggested read: Secret Project Overmatch Now Deployed On Three Carrier Strike Groups

U.S. Military Expansion on the Island

As of the moment, civilian officials are safe from being stationed in Taiwan, but officials are expected to set foot on the island. However, the U.S. military's Special Operations Forces Liaison Element (SOFLE) is developing its training program in Taiwan.This decision involved three teams from the Green Berets: the 1st Special Forces, the 2nd Battalion, and Alpha Company. They will be stationed at the Airborne-Special Service Company and the 101st Amphibious Reconnaissance Battalion and act as resident training observers. In a previous interview with Tsa Ing-wen in 2021, she was the first president to recognize the presence of the U.S. Army Green Berets in the country after 40 years. Also, the Ministry of Defense mentioned that the program will continue in efforts to prepare and train for war. Further, this is an annual plan. Even though the coalition's real intentions are clear, the Ministry of National Defense has yet to comment on them further.

Support Amid Silence of the Department of Defense

In a statement, the U.S. Department of Defense deviated from direct comment about the engagements, operations, or training happening on the island. However, they emphasized their support for Taiwan regarding the threats from the People's Republic of China. They also added that their support is rock solid to the island, which led to the permanent stationing of the Green Berets. Thus, this action contributed to stability and peace across the Taiwan Strait and within the region. Further, the United States has a long-standing “One China” policy, with direction from the Taiwan Relations Act, Three Joint U.S. PRC Communiques, and Six Assurances. By being consistent with the Relations Act, the United States will be available to aid the country in achieving a self-sufficient defense capability.Whether this military exercise and the permanent station of the Green Berets will fulfill the personal interests of both countries, the important thing is the positive outcome. They can benefit from this alliance as they are joining forces to get ready to counter potential threats such as China. With the rigorous training and exchange in technological warfare advances, they can both safeguard their common interest. Read next: Record Number of Student Veterans Requesting Mental Health Services


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