The collective insights of Taiwan defense experts coalesce into a clear vision of the coordinated efforts essential for safeguarding Taiwan against potential hostilities.

In a time of uncertainty and volatility, The Boiling Moat: Urgent Steps to Defend Taiwan, edited by Matt Pottinger, outlines a strategic framework for Taiwan, the United States, and allied nations to counter potential Chinese aggression.

Assembling perspectives from seasoned experts in military, policy, and geopolitical strategy, The Boiling Moat advocates for a robust, proactive defense strategy aimed at deterring potential aggression from China. This book is urgent reading for those interested in Taiwan and Indo-Pacific security, especially given the broader implications of Taiwan’s position for democratic nations globally.

Matt Pottinger, a former journalist and U.S. Marine officer who served as a senior White House official during the Trump administration, gathers a distinguished group of experts in this book to address the urgent need to bolster defenses against potential aggression.

He and his co-authors contend that Taiwan holds a pivotal role not only in Indo-Pacific stability but also within global supply chains, especially in the semiconductor industry. They espouse a unified approach to strengthen defense capabilities, merging military preparedness with diplomatic coordination among the United States, Japan, Australia, and Europe.

The authors suggest that the question is no longer “if” but “when” the People’s Republic of China (PRC) might launch an attack on Taiwan. They present diverse scenarios for how such an assault could unfold, ranging from maritime blockades designed to isolate the island to a swift, full-scale invasion aimed at seizing control.

With intricate details on the capabilities required to mount a realistic defense of Taiwan, the authors’ expertise and years of practical experience shine throughout the book. Their in-depth analysis underscores the specific military and strategic buildups essential for Taiwan’s security, lending the work a grounded authority that reflects firsthand knowledge and insight.

Beyond military buildup, clear resolve and coordinated action among democracies is essential to prevent conflict, the authors argue. Drawing on lessons from recent global crises, including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the book underscores the importance of effective deterrence to avert a comparable scenario in Taiwan.

The chapters outline a series of strategic imperatives, from Taiwan’s urgent need for internal military reforms to the United States’ critical role in bolstering regional defenses. The authors also highlight Japan’s potential impact as a key regional ally, pressing for timely adjustments to defense budgets and military readiness within the next two years.

The introductory chapters devote substantial attention to Taiwan’s strategic importance, especially its role in global semiconductor production and its impact on regional stability. In particular, Chapter Two, titled “Taiwan: The Stakes,” warns that if China were to seize control of Taiwan’s semiconductor industry, the resulting economic disruption could echo the devastation of World War II, with reverberating downturns lasting several years or more as cascading effects compound over time.

While the book presents a structured, actionable framework – outlining defense reforms for Taiwan, logistical preparations, and strengthened regional alliances – it occasionally falls short in addressing the logistical and political challenges inherent in these initiatives. At times, the authors miss opportunities to probe more deeply into the complexities of defense logistics and alliance management, leaving certain assumptions unchallenged.

For example, The Boiling Moat could benefit from further addressing the intricate dynamics of multilateral defense coordination, particularly the diverse levels of commitment and political limitations among potential allies – a recurring challenge when it comes to the Taiwan issue. This nuanced aspect of alliance-building, with its varied national interests and political constraints, remains largely underexplored, leaving readers without a full picture of the diplomatic and strategic hurdles that Taiwan’s defense efforts may face.

A deeper exploration of the “human factor” in policymaking would provide a crucial element for understanding how leadership changes and election cycles could impact the viability of proposed defense reforms and bilateral agreements. By delving into the influence of political transitions and personal leadership styles, the book could offer a more comprehensive view of the short-term challenges and uncertainties that shape defense strategies and alliances.

Overall, The Boiling Moat strikes a balance between urgency and realism, assessing Taiwan’s vulnerabilities while outlining actionable steps for allied nations to mitigate a potential crisis. Its message resonates strongly with readers concerned about escalating tensions in the Indo-Pacific, as well as Taiwan’s crucial role in global security and the economy. The book’s call to action underscores Taiwan’s strategic importance, offering a timely perspective on the high stakes involved in safeguarding regional stability.