1.   Sheer cliffs defend the island.

2.   And America has promised to defend the island where a popular movement for formal independence is growing.

3.   Beijing has not ruled out force to retake the island, and experts say the Bell choppers would be used by the Taiwanese to defend the island.

4.   Since the end of the war Britain has invested billions of dollars in building a air base to defend the islands.

5.   The Japanese government has discussed the issue with Washington and believes that America is legally obliged to defend the islands.

6.   The San Juan National Historic Site encompasses two Spanish fortresses used to defend the island from attack.

7.   A conflict could quickly involve the United States, which has hinted it would defend the island if necessary.

8.   A top Pentagon official says sale of advanced destroyers to Taiwan would be considered if a study showed they were required to defend the island against mainland China.

9.   A war could quickly involve the United States, which has hinted it might help defend the island.

10.   Air power is considered crucial to defending the island in any future conflict.