journal article

A battlefield without gunpowder: a typological analysis of the PLA’s cognitive warfare against Taiwan through military exercises

Lin Y.-Y.; Chiu C.-H.

Publication year: 2026
Peer-reviewed: Yes
Source / journal: asian security
Country of origin: Taiwan
Language: English
Institution type: Academic, Military
Authors’ affiliations: Graduate Institute of Strategic Studies, National Defense University, Taiwan; Department of Political Science, National Defense University, Taiwan
Academic discipline: Military Influence & Security Doctrine; Cognitive & Behavioral Sciences; Social Psychology & Group Dynamics; Network Science (SNA / ONA); Human–Machine & Algorithmic Mediation
Actors: China; Military / Armed Forces
Contribution type: Empirical
Import source: Scopus export

Abstract

Between 2022 and 2024, China targeted Taiwan with four large-scale military exercises, integrating military deterrence with cognitive warfare. This study examines China’s strategic adjustments by categorizing operational targets along “General public/Political elites” and “Anti-Independence/Pro-Reunification” (反獨/促統, fan du/Cu tong) dimensions. Using textual coding and data-driven analysis, information is classified into “Deterrence,” “Punishment,” “Mobilization,” and “Appeasement.” Findings indicate strategic shifts aligned with the political landscape. During Tsai Ing-wen’s administration, cognitive warfare prioritized deterrence to weaken Taiwan-U.S. relations. Conversely, after Lai Ching-te took office, the strategy shifted inward, focusing on mobilization and appeasement to induce cognitive biases and deepen socio-political divisions. © 2026 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.

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