China kicked off its biggest military exercise yet around Taiwan on Monday, dubbed “Justice Mission 2025,” designed to show it can fully isolate the island and cut off its external lifelines.
The massive show of force tests Taiwan’s defences, especially its new U.S.-made weapons.
Scale of the Operation
The People’s Liberation Army Eastern Theatre Command deployed:
- 89 military aircraft
- 14 warships
- 14 coast guard vessels
- 4 additional warships in the Western Pacific
Live-fire zones were set up in a record seven areas, closer to Taiwan’s shores than ever before. Drills include simulated blockades of major ports Keelung (north) and Kaohsiung (south).
Over 80 domestic flights were cancelled and more than 100,000 international travellers faced delays.
New Tech on Display
For the first time, state media showed advanced robotic systems in action:
- Humanoid robots
- Tiny drone swarms
- Armed robotic dogs
Taiwan’s Response
Taiwan’s defence ministry put forces on high alert and showcased its HIMARS rocket launchers — capable of striking China’s Fujian province across the strait.
Deputy chief of general staff Hsieh Jih-sheng said the drills threaten not just Taiwan but the wider world.
Why Now?
Analysts link the timing to:
- A recent $11.1 billion U.S. arms sale to Taiwan
- Comments from Japanese leaders hinting at possible support for the island
Life Goes On in Taipei
Despite the tension, Taiwan’s stock market closed up 0.9%. Local teacher Lin Wei-ming said: “These drills are mostly to intimidate us — we’ve seen them before. The government will handle the politics.”
The exercises continue through Tuesday, with Taiwan ready for rapid counter-moves if needed.
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