Armed Forces to study India’s options to a potential invasion on Taiwan by China

Debating, discussing and deliberating on formation of joint or theatre commands apart, the armed forces have also decided to undertake a study to assess India’s possible options and responses to a potential invasion of or attack on Taiwan by China. Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Gen. Anil Chauhan ordered the study during a conclave of top military commanders in Lucknow. The idea, according to sources, is to be ready with options in case a conflict over Taiwan breaks out. This decision was taken in the wake of persistent reports and possibly inputs shared by the U.S. and Japanese intelligence agencies on Chinese plans over its Taiwan policy. This is seen as essential since India has recalibrated its relations with the United States and is a member of the Quad, the grouping that also consists of the U.S., Japan and Australia. It is for the first time that India’s military planners are looking at drawing up plans to meet contingencies arising out of a possible conflict far from its shores. The study will draw up calibrated plans taking into account various possible scenarios that may emerge during the conflict. The study team, drawn from across the three services, has been told to look at options in case the United States seeks India’s help. The Indian military wants to be ready with options and not wait for the actual conflict to break out over Taiwan, sources said.