Taiwan has launched its largest military exercises amid the threat of a Chinese invasion
On August 5, Taiwan began its annual Han Kuang military exercises, which are the largest to date. The exercises will continue through August 14 and are designed to prepare the military and the civilian population for a possible invasion by China.
According to Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense, during the exercises, active-duty personnel and reservists will practice responses to an armed attack on the island. Civilians will also be involved in the training. Specifically, simulated air raid drills are planned, as well as a temporary 30-minute reduction in mobile internet speeds in some regions.
During one phase of the exercises, reservists already conducted live-fire drills along the coast of the Taiwan Strait, practicing how to repel a potential landing by Chinese troops.
Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te stated that the government will continue to strengthen the island’s defense capabilities and develop a comprehensive defense system.
China considers Taiwan part of its territory and has repeatedly declared its readiness to use force to establish control over the island. In recent years, Beijing has stepped up its military activity near Taiwan, regularly dispatching fighter jets and warships to the area around the island and conducting large-scale military exercises.
In response, Taiwan is increasing its defense spending and focusing on the development of mobile weaponry, particularly drones, to conduct asymmetric defense. The government also plans to increase defense spending to 5% of gross domestic product by 2030.
This was reported by AFP, as relayed by UNN.
As a reminder, Russia is likely assisting China in training its military personnel and is also providing Beijing with intelligence and advanced military technology, which could give China an advantage in the event of a potential conflict over Taiwan.
Taiwan is ramping up missile production due to issues with U.S. weapons.
