Taiwan is preparing to develop a new missile defence network called the “T-Dome”, designed to strengthen the island’s multilayered air defence amid escalating military threats from China. The initiative follows President William Lai’s remarks during his Double Ten National Day address, where he pledged to enhance Taiwan’s air defence capabilities through the creation of a comprehensive protection system.
Although Lai did not reveal specific details, analysts say the project’s name draws inspiration from Israel’s Iron Dome and the U.S. “Golden Dome” programs. According to Su Tzu-yun of Taiwan’s Institute for National Defense and Security Research, the T-Dome would integrate multiple air defence layers capable of countering missiles, fighter aircraft, and drones—similar to Israeli and American models.
Kuo Yu-jen, director of the Institute of China and Asia-Pacific Studies at National Sun Yat-sen University, noted that the project aligns with the defence models of the United States, South Korea, and Japan. He emphasized that Taiwan seeks an integrated detection and interception system that provides a comprehensive, multilayered shield against advanced threats.
Political scientist Chen Shih-min from National Taiwan University pointed out that China recently showcased hypersonic and ballistic missiles capable of reaching the U.S. mainland during a September 3 military parade—an event that underlined Beijing’s growing capabilities. “President Lai’s T-Dome announcement sends a reassuring message to the public that Taiwan is not defenseless against China’s missile arsenal,” Chen said.
Retired Air Force Colonel Chou Yu-ping explained that Taiwan’s current air defence network already integrates radar data from Patriot and Tien Kung III (“Sky Bow”) systems. He suggested that the T-Dome would likely employ a sensor-to-shooter architecture—similar to the U.S. Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS)—which rapidly links target detection to engagement. Once completed, the T-Dome could provide Taiwan with an advanced and fully networked missile defence capability across multiple threat layers.
