Taiwan Conducts Military Drills to Defend Against Potential Chinese Invasion

Taiwan’s military initiated a two-day drill on January 31, focusing on sea and air defense strategies to prepare for a potential surprise attack by China. The exercise aimed to simulate the response to Chinese warships and warplanes approaching the island. Amid escalating tensions, China claims Taiwan as its territory and emphasizes its desire for control over the self-governing island.

The annual drills, which began on January 30, come shortly after Taiwan’s presidential election, where Lai Ching-te was elected president, securing a third consecutive term for the independence-leaning Democratic Progressive Party. Despite the significant military imbalance between Taiwan and China, Taiwan has been enhancing its defense capabilities through the acquisition of advanced weaponry and strengthening its domestic arms industry, while also extending mandatory military service.