Inside Taiwan's Civil Defense Training: A Covert Operation

September 15, 2025 - 05:32

Getting press access to Taiwan's Kuma Academy feels more like signing up for a covert operation than joining a civil defense class. The recent eight-hour course offered to Taiwanese citizens aims to prepare them for the unsettling possibility of an invasion by China. Participants are trained in essential skills that could prove vital in a crisis, including the use of tourniquets and understanding gray-zone tactics.

The atmosphere in the academy is serious yet focused, with instructors emphasizing the importance of readiness in the face of potential threats. Attendees learn not only how to administer first aid but also how to navigate the complexities of modern warfare, which often involves unconventional strategies.

Secrecy surrounds the training, reflecting the sensitive nature of the geopolitical tensions in the region. As citizens engage in these critical lessons, there is a palpable sense of urgency and determination to safeguard their homeland. The course serves as a reminder of the precarious situation Taiwan faces and the proactive measures its people are willing to take to ensure their safety and sovereignty.