97年國防報告書以「信賴的國防」為主軸,區分四篇十二章,首以「迎接挑戰」說明中共針對性威脅,次以「開創契機」說明國防轉型與軍隊國家化之成效,續以「厚植戰力」說明國軍戰訓整備並發揮國防資源最大效益,終以「全民國防」為主題,爭取全民支持參與國防。
The Ministry of National Defense has its primary missions to modernize military force, build reliable combat power, ensure sustainable national development and security, and fulfill responsibilities for the security of the Asia-Pacific Region. National Defense Reports are published to fulfill people’s right of knowledge for Taiwan’s national defense development and to increase confidence of the general public in national defense. The 2008 Report consists of four parts: Facing the Challenges, Creating Opportunities, Advancing Warfighting Capabilities, and All-out Defense. Each part is further divided into chapters and sections to provide detailed information of Taiwan’s defense policy, military strategy, military strength, and so on.