Taiwan announced plans to build a new multi-layered air defense network, dubbed “T-Dome,” as part of its broader strategy to counter China. President Lai Ching-te made the announcement during his National Day speech, emphasizing that increased defense spending is essential for safeguarding the island.
“The increase in defense spending has a purpose; it is a clear necessity to counter enemy threats and a driving force for developing our defense industries,” Lai said. He added that the T-Dome project aims to establish “a rigorous air defense system in Taiwan with multi-layered defense, high-level detection, and effective interception.”
A senior official from the presidential office stated that funding for the T-Dome initiative will be included in a special defense budget proposal expected by the end of the year. The system, according to the official, seeks to strengthen Taiwan’s interception capabilities and form a comprehensive aerial defense network similar in concept to Israel’s Iron Dome.
Taiwan’s air defense currently relies heavily on the U.S.-made Patriot missile system and the domestically developed Sky Bow missiles. The country recently introduced a new interceptor, Chiang-Kong, designed to target mid-range ballistic missiles and operate at altitudes higher than the Patriot system.
Chinese Reaction
Beijing responded sharply to President Lai’s remarks. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun accused Lai of “peddling the separatist fallacy of Taiwan independence,” adding that “seeking independence by force” would lead to confrontation. China continues to view Taiwan as its own territory and has frequently conducted military exercises around the island.
China’s Taiwan Affairs Office reiterated its position that “reunification” is the path to peace and stability, vowing to unite Taiwanese “compatriots” against separatist efforts and foreign interference.
A U.S. administration official welcomed Taiwan’s commitment to bolstering defense and maintaining stability, stating that Washington supports efforts to ensure peace across the Taiwan Strait. “We don’t think routine speeches should be used as a pretext for coercive or military action,” the official said.
Taiwan’s National Day marks the anniversary of the 1911 revolution that overthrew China’s last imperial dynasty and led to the establishment of the Republic of China. After losing the Chinese civil war in 1949, the Republic’s government relocated to Taiwan, where it continues to operate independently despite Beijing’s sovereignty claims.
📌 Taiwan unveils plans for a new multi-layered air defense system “T-Dome”. President Lai Ching-te made the announcement during his National Day speech.
📎 https://t.co/bNg45UulKG pic.twitter.com/hoKdLh2DAq
— Defensehere (@defensehere_en) October 10, 2025