By Joe Udo
TAIPEI (CONVERSEER) – China has begun its largest recorded military exercises surrounding Taiwan, escalating regional tensions and raising international concern over the stability of the Taiwan Strait. The drills commenced on Tuesday and involved warships, fighter jets, artillery units and rocket force elements in what officials described as a simulated full blockade of the island.
According to China’s foreign ministry, the exercises, codenamed “Justice Mission 2025,” were a “severe punishment” against what it termed pro-independence forces in Taiwan. It further warned foreign governments against “using Taiwan to contain China,” a remark largely interpreted as directed at the United States.
The drills took place less than two weeks after the United States approved an $11bn arms package for Taiwan, which Beijing has strongly condemned. China responded by issuing sanctions against US defence companies, further straining ties between the two global powers. Analysts say the timing signals Beijing’s intent to demonstrate military capability and highlight its resolve concerning Taiwan.
China’s Eastern Theatre Command, responsible for the Taiwan Strait, stated that the exercises aim to deter “separatist forces” and external involvement. State media published footage of naval and air assets mobilising, while China’s Maritime Safety Administration designated seven live-fire zones, the highest number recorded, covering larger areas and operating closer to Taiwan than seen previously.
Taiwan’s presidential office criticised the military activity, describing it as a threat to peace, regional order and international norms. The island’s defence ministry reported detecting dozens of Chinese military vessels and aircraft near its territory and has placed its forces on high alert, deploying maritime units, air assets and missile defences.
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A senior Taiwanese defence official stated that its forces “must consider every possible scenario,” adding that such live-fire drills pose risks to Taiwan, neighbouring countries and international trade routes. Taiwan’s aviation authority has begun rerouting flights following China’s declaration of temporary danger zones, while the coast guard has deployed vessels to monitor Chinese ships approaching its waters.
China has accused Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te of pushing for independence. Lai rejects this position, reiterating that Taiwan is already a sovereign nation and intends to maintain the status quo while strengthening its defence resources. Public opinion surveys referenced by Reuters suggest most Taiwanese favour maintaining the present arrangements.
Since 2022, China has significantly increased military pressure on Taiwan, often staging drills in response to political developments it considers provocative, including closer US-Taiwan relations. This week’s exercise marks the sixth major set of drills in three years and the first under the new Eastern Theatre Command chief, Yang Zhibin.
Chinese state media claimed the drills also intend to demonstrate Beijing’s ability to prevent Taiwan from receiving external assistance in the event of conflict, focusing on deep-water port access and strategic supply routes. Promotional footage released showcased drones, robotic systems and advanced missile platforms, signalling enhanced operational capabilities.
