China has its big military exercise all around Taiwan continued with further exercises on the second day. Citing the Chinese military, state news agency Xinhua reported that the maritime and air maneuvers were taking place at five locations around the island. Destroyers, frigates as well as fighter and bomber aircraft were used.
Besides, I have this Military Shooting exercises with live ammunition were carried out. AFP journalists on Pingtan – a Chinese island closest to Taiwan – watched as a volley of missiles was launched. At least ten rockets were fired.
According to Taiwan’s Defense Ministry, as of Tuesday morning, 130 missions by Chinese military aircraft and drones had been recorded around the island in one day. This is the second highest value for such a period. The highest value was recorded in October 2024 during the Joint Sword 2024B exercise with 153 flights. In addition, Taiwan reportedly registered 14 Chinese warships, eight other state-owned ships and a high-altitude balloon.
Sea-air coordination capabilities tested
The Chinese army said ground troops conducted target practice in the waters north of Taiwan in the morning. The “desired results” were achieved. In the waters north and south of Taiwan, “sea-air coordination and integrated blockade and control capabilities” were also tested, the army said.
A senior Taiwanese security official described the Maneuvers as blatant provocation. China is trying to reshape the international order according to his own agenda. Taiwan is watching closely to see whether China will escalate the situation further, for example by launching missiles over the island.
Maneuvers in response to US arms package
On On Monday, China started the major maneuver under the name Justice Mission 2025. According to Chinese information, it is intended to simulate a blockade of Taiwan’s most important ports and attacks on maritime targets. At the same time, it represents a direct response to a move made by the US eleven days earlier announced arms package for Taiwan worth $11.1 billion China then announced “decisive and powerful measures” to protect its territory.
The last exercises with sharp ammunition China carried out off Taiwan in April. Since 2022, China has held several large military exercises of this type around Taiwan. China considers Taiwan to be part of its territory, although the island has a democratically elected government independent of Beijing. The People’s Republic wants to incorporate Taiwan – if necessary by force if this cannot be achieved peacefully.
