Taiwan begins large-scale military exercises
Taiwan has commenced its largest annual military exercises, known as Han Kuang, amid escalating Chinese military pressure in the region. The drills, including live-fire exercises, test the island's combat readiness and defense against invasion. The ten-day exercises involve a record mobilization of 20,000 reservists alongside active-duty troops and civilian agencies. Exercises focus on defense scenarios, testing 24-hour operations and countering China's "gray-zone tactics." This year's drills emphasize decentralization and unscripted live-fire scenarios. New communication methods are also being tested to enhance self-reliance. For the first time, urban resilience drills simulate mobile internet disruptions in major cities, preparing for telecommunications interference during an attack. The drills also simulate wartime weapons production relocation and civilian factory conversion for military use. The exercises feature newly acquired U.S.-made M1A2T Abrams tanks and HIMARS rocket systems. China views democratic Taiwan as a breakaway province and has consistently stated it will not rule out the use of force to achieve what it calls "reunification." Beijing has intensified its military activities around Taiwan, with fighter jets and warships routinely operating near the island. Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te observed live-fire drills, emphasizing the island's determination to defend itself and protect its democratic way of life. These exercises underscore Taiwan's commitment to robust preparedness as tensions in the Taiwan Strait remain heightened.
