HSINCHU (TVBS News) — The first batch of recruits in Taiwan following the extension of compulsory military service to one year, reported to Hsinchu County's Litoushan Camp in Xinpu Township on Thursday (Jan. 25.)
The 206 Brigade's Battalion 4 received a total of 304 new recruits from the northern region, who will undergo an eight-week training program.
In line with the "Strengthening National Defense Force Structure Adjustment Plan," the military restored its previous one-year conscription, said a spokesperson from the 206 Brigade, adding that they expect to recruit around 670 individuals for the enlistment.
According to Battalion Commander Hu Han-wen, the obligation has been extended from four months to one year, and the training stretched from five weeks to eight.
The training curriculum is divided into four stages. The initial stage focuses on instilling the core values of a soldier and basic fitness.
The second phase revolves around rifle shooting, pistol, machine gun mechanical training, and basic combat coaching.
The third phase offers advanced rifle shooting instruction, combined combat coaching, and simulated battlefields to boost recruits' confidence in weapon handling. The final phase is a five-day end-of-training evaluation.
All new soldiers underwent health screening on arrival before officially entering the camp. Local military personnel were present throughout the inspections, and drug sniffer dogs were on site to ensure no contraband or hazardous items were brought in.
Lastly, the new soldiers had their heads shaved after receiving their uniforms – regardless of the length of their hair.