China Conducts Live-Fire Drills Around Taiwan, Heightening Tensions

China initiated live-fire military exercises around Taiwan on March 25, 2024, simulating a blockade of the island’s crucial ports. This move was met with strong condemnation from Taipei, which accused Beijing of “military intimidation.” Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense characterized the drills as further evidence of China’s aggressive posture, calling it “the greatest destroyer of peace.”

In response to the drills, Taiwan’s military established a response center and deployed “appropriate forces” to ensure readiness. The exercises are part of China’s broader strategy, as it considers Taiwan a part of its territory and has not ruled out military action to assert its claims. The heightened military activity comes shortly after the United States announced a record arms sale package to Taiwan, exceeding $10 billion.

Beijing’s military statement did not mention the United States or Japan but outlined a series of extensive live-fire training exercises. These drills, dubbed “Justice Mission 2025,” involve various military branches, including the army, navy, air force, and rocket forces. Senior Colonel Shi Yi of the People’s Liberation Army’s Eastern Theater Command described the focus of these exercises as enhancing “sea-air combat readiness” and conducting joint operations aimed at ensuring superiority in key areas.

China’s drills include live-fire activities targeting maritime locations to the north and southwest of Taiwan. The military also published a map indicating five large zones where these activities would occur for ten hours on March 26. The statement urged vessels and aircraft not involved in the exercises to avoid these waters and airspace for safety reasons.

Taiwan’s Presidential Office spokeswoman, Karen Kuo, criticized China for its “disregard for international norms” and for using military threats against neighboring countries. On the same day, Taiwan’s coastguard reported monitoring four Chinese coastguard vessels near its northern and eastern coasts. In response, Taiwan deployed large vessels to ensure readiness and sent additional support units to safeguard its waters.

The tensions have escalated following recent statements from Japan’s Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, suggesting that Japan’s military might intervene if China takes action against Taiwan. This reflects growing international concern over China’s military assertiveness in the region.

As the situation develops, the focus remains on the implications these military drills may have on regional stability and the potential for increased international involvement in the Taiwan Strait.