The Butchers of Bejing know that we will not go to war to defend Taiwan...and I'm far from being convinced that we should.
So Taiwan's ultimate fate rests with those psychopaths and what they decide is best to achieve *their* evil goals.
...and they do this while having some of the suckiest weather on the planet.
I too have lived in Taiwan. Even despite its status as “outcast” (or because of it?) it has built a wealthy, stable and pleasant society on its own terms. The people are pleasant and their common culture binds them.
So how to defend themselves from the fascists on the other side of the Taiwan Strait? First of all do NOT count on the USA. The USA is in the process of selling out its own citizens. A tiny island far away won’t warrant 30 seconds of debate for a immoral, leftist President of the future looking for a quick deal or a headline.
Follow the Swiss. Taiwan is now moving to an all-volunteer Army. Send every soldier home with their battle rifle, 100 rounds of ammo, and a safe to put them in. Call them back every year for a day of training and updates
1 million armed citizens will make even the most bloodthirsty communist/fascist think twice.
The best way for Taiwan to protect itself is mass production.
That is, to create small and cheap unmanned weapons, most of which are single use. For example, light sea mines that follow the current, not designed to take out warships, but support ships. If they do not go off in a specified window, they deactivate and sink.
Another is a single bomb carrying drone about as cheap as an economy car, with off the shelf parts. And a non-electronic guidance system in case their electronics get fried.