Taiwan Names US-Educated Security Expert as New Vice Defence Minister

Post by : Saif

Taiwan has chosen a senior security official with strong international experience as its new vice defence minister, marking an important step in the island’s push to modernise its military. President Lai Ching-te announced the appointment of Hsu Szu-chien on Friday. The decision comes at a time when Taiwan is preparing a massive $40 billion increase in defence spending to face rising pressure from China.

Hsu Szu-chien is currently an advisor to Taiwan's National Security Council. He studied in the United States and holds a doctorate from Columbia University. According to the presidential office, he has long played a key role in Taiwan’s international security discussions. He speaks fluent English and has taken part in major international forums, including the Halifax International Security Forum.

Presidential spokesperson Karen Kuo said the president wants to use Hsu’s strong background to support Defence Minister Wellington Koo. She explained that Hsu brings deep knowledge of security issues and practical experience in working with global partners. This, she said, will help bring “new momentum” to Taiwan’s military reforms.

Hsu has already led important delegations for talks with U.S. government and defence officials. Taiwan and the United States continue to work closely despite not having formal diplomatic relations. The U.S. remains Taiwan’s biggest arms supplier and its most important international supporter.

China claims Taiwan as its own territory and has increased military activity around the island in recent years. Chinese warships and military aircraft now appear near Taiwan almost every day. In response, Taiwan is upgrading its forces and preparing new defence strategies to strengthen its readiness.

Taiwan’s defence ministry already has two vice ministers and two deputy ministers, and Hsu will join this leadership team during a period of major change. The government hopes the new appointment will help guide reforms to make the military more modern, more flexible, and better prepared for future threats.

On Thursday, Taiwan’s defence minister said the government had begun early discussions with the United States about what new weapons it wants to purchase using the $40 billion supplementary budget. These talks are expected to shape Taiwan’s defence planning for years to come.

Taiwan’s government firmly rejects China’s claim over the island. It says Taiwan’s future must be decided only by its people, not by outside pressure. With stronger defence plans and a leadership team focused on international cooperation, Taiwan is signaling that it intends to protect its democracy and maintain stability in the region.

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