Russia to Supply China with High-Altitude Parachute Systems, Raising Concerns Over Potential Taiwan Invasion
A recent analysis by the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) reveals Russia has agreed to sell China parachute systems capable of delivering up to 190 kilograms (419 pounds) from extremely high altitudes, fueling concerns about a potential Chinese invasion of Taiwan.
According to documents examined by RUSI, Russia committed to providing China with performance data for the ”Dalnolyot” system – specifically how it operates in temperatures as low as -60 degrees Celsius (-76 Fahrenheit) – by the end of 2024. Beijing requested testing of the systems for drops from 8,000 meters (26,250 feet).
The report indicates this altitude would enable Chinese forces to glide up to 80 kilometers (50 miles), potentially allowing “Chinese special forces groups to penetrate the territory of other countries without being noticed.” analyst Michael Danylyuk suggests the system could facilitate a ”stage zero” landing in Taiwan, involving the covert deployment of equipment and special forces outside Taiwanese airspace.
The sale comes despite Russia’s unsuccessful deployment of its own parachute troops during the early stages of the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, when an attempt to seize Hostomel airfield near Kyiv failed. However,Danylyuk argues the equipment is only necessary for an “invasion stage” and is not required for the current conflict in Ukraine.
RUSI analysts suggest China’s key challenge in a Taiwan invasion would be suppressing taiwanese air defenses and landing sufficient forces before Taiwan can fully mobilize. The report proposes a strategy involving airdropping armored vehicles onto golf courses near Taiwanese ports and airfields to clear a path for landing forces.
Associated Press journalists Dake Kang in Beijing and David Rising in Bangkok contributed to this report.