Understanding the Taiwan Confrontation

In this episode of Facing Coming Storms, Matthew Sperzel and Daniel Shats from the Institute for the Study of War join us to explore rising tensions in the Taiwan Strait. We discuss China’s growing military and diplomatic pressure—daily aerial incursions, coast guard patrols near Taiwan’s islands—and debate if Xi Jinping’s 2027 deadline signals action or posturing.

What You’ll Learn

• China’s Coercion: How daily military moves pressure Taiwan. 
• Taiwan’s Defence: Asymmetric strategies against a giant. 
• US Ambiguity: The delicate balance of deterrence. 
• Global Stakes: Taiwan’s role in a wider geopolitical storm.

Matthew and Daniel’s insights reveal Taiwan as a crucible for our turbulent times.

Key moments

04:18 - Escalating Chinese Pressure on Taiwan

15:25 - Taiwan’s Asymmetric Military Strategy

20:14 - U.S. Military Presence in Taiwan

29:16 - China’s Blockade Drills and Scenarios

42:34 - U.S. Preparations for a Taiwan Conflict

51:29 - Hong Kong’s Impact on Taiwanese Sentiment

Facing Coming Storms is brought to you by the British Army’s Centre for Historical Analysis and Conflict Research, in partnership with the Project for the Study of the 21st Century, and produced by Urban Podcasts.