Taiwan is carrying out its largest reserve force overhaul in decades, expanding how long reservists train and updating training content with modern weapons systems. Multiple reports say Taiwan is increasing the mandatory reserve call-up period to 14 days, with training requirements doubled compared with previous arrangements. The changes also introduce new equipment and capabilities, including drone-related training and U.S.-made HIMARS rocket systems, reflecting an effort to prepare reservists for contemporary combat.
The reforms are presented as a response to a growing manpower shortage. Sources link the problem to Taiwan’s declining birth rate, which reduces the pool of eligible military-age recruits over time. At the same time, reports describe increasing pressure from China, which is described as driving Taiwan to strengthen its overall readiness and reduce reliance on its standing forces alone.
The overhaul is also framed as part of Taiwan’s broader effort to adapt to modern warfare lessons, including those drawn from recent conflicts such as the war in Ukraine. Overall, the measures aim to improve reservists’ readiness and ensure the reserve force can contribute effectively to defense planning.
