China’s military strategies concerning Taiwan have long been a subject of intense debate. With rising tensions in the Taiwan Strait, many analysts are predicting that China’s military might soon target Taiwan. While the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) dominates the conversation when discussing China’s military capabilities, a lesser-known but equally crucial force is quietly preparing for an eventual assault on Taiwan. That force is the People’s Armed Police (PAP).
In this blog post, we will explore how this militarized police unit is shaping up to play a pivotal role in any potential military actions aimed at Taiwan. From covert operations to urban warfare, the PAP’s unique training and preparation could make them a secret weapon in a larger invasion strategy.
What is the People’s Armed Police (PAP)?
The People’s Armed Police (PAP) is China’s primary paramilitary force, and it operates under the direct control of the central government. Established in 1982, the PAP’s responsibilities encompass law enforcement, counterterrorism, and internal security. However, its role is far broader than simply maintaining order within mainland China. The PAP is also part of the nation’s military apparatus, a critical component for internal security and border protection.
While most discussions about China’s military might focus on the PLA, the PAP is equally significant, especially in operations that target Taiwan.
How the PAP is Preparing for Taiwan
Recent reports and videos released by Chinese state-run outlets reveal that the People’s Armed Police has been ramping up its training, focusing on amphibious and urban warfare tactics that would be crucial in a Taiwan invasion.
Here are some key areas where the PAP is focusing its efforts:
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Amphibious Warfare: The PAP is training extensively in waterborne tactics, including simulating attacks from inflatable boats. This is an essential skill when trying to launch surprise attacks on Taiwan’s coastal areas.
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Urban Combat: The PAP is honing its special forces skills for urban operations. These highly skilled units are trained to carry out surgical operations in densely populated areas — think decapitation strikes to capture key infrastructure, such as airports and ports.
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Adverse Conditions: Training in cold, hot, and high-altitude conditions ensures the PAP soldiers can operate in diverse terrains that might be encountered during an invasion of Taiwan’s varied landscape.
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Group Tactics and Battlefield Rescue: With the potential for prolonged combat, the PAP is also training in coordinated group tactics and battlefield rescues. These would be crucial if urban resistance turns violent.
PAP’s Role in an Invasion of Taiwan
The People’s Armed Police is a highly disciplined force, but what makes them particularly valuable in the Taiwan scenario is their urban warfare and counterterrorism experience. In a full-scale invasion, China would first rely on the PLA for an amphibious assault. However, should things escalate into a protracted conflict, the PAP’s Special Operation Forces could be called in to secure strategic locations like Taipei.
Their role could include:
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Securing Internal Order: The PAP would help maintain order within Taiwan’s cities, handling tasks like crowd control and suppression of any resistance.
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Counterinsurgency: If the invasion were to face significant resistance from Taiwanese forces or local militias, the PAP’s expertise in counterterrorism could play a significant role in breaking down opposition.
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Critical Infrastructure: The PAP could be mobilized to seize critical infrastructure such as airports and ports, essential to the logistics of an extended military campaign.
The PAP’s Special Forces: The Heart of China’s Strategy
Within the PAP is a highly trained special forces division, known for its precision operations. These units are often deployed in high-risk scenarios requiring a combination of speed, mobility, and discretion. Whether it’s protecting Olympic venues or handling counter-terrorism operations in sensitive regions like Xinjiang, the PAP Special Forces have demonstrated their capacity for rapid deployment and operation under extreme pressure.
If China is forced into a protracted campaign in Taiwan, these forces would play a crucial role in occupying urban areas, enforcing martial law, and quelling civilian unrest.
PAP’s Role in Suppressing Resistance in Taiwan
The key question is whether Taiwan’s population would comply with a Chinese occupation. Taiwan’s mountainous terrain, coupled with its dense urban areas, makes resistance a real possibility. In such a scenario, the PAP’s expertise in maintaining public order would be vital. By managing civil unrest and maintaining internal security, the PAP could allow PLA forces to focus on more traditional military operations, such as engaging Taiwanese troops and fortifying strategic locations.
Conclusion: The PAP’s Strategic Importance
China’s People’s Armed Police (PAP) is more than just a domestic law enforcement agency. Its military capabilities, particularly in urban warfare and counterterrorism, position it as an essential force in any operation targeting Taiwan. Whether in the early stages of a blockade or in the final stages of military governance, the PAP could be a secret weapon in Beijing’s military strategy.
As tensions between China and Taiwan continue to escalate, it is becoming increasingly clear that the PAP will play a pivotal role in any future military conflict over Taiwan. With specialized urban training, amphibious warfare preparation, and counterinsurgency skills, the PAP will likely be a critical factor in any successful Chinese strategy to seize Taiwan.
Relevant Links for Further Reading
- People’s Armed Police
- Amphibious Warfare in Modern Combat
- Urban Warfare and Counterinsurgency Tactics
- Taiwan Military Defense Strategy
- China’s Military Modernization
Photo credit: Business Insider
