China conducted live-firing exercises near Taiwan lasting 10 hours on Tuesday, using new amphibious assault ships, bomber aircraft, and warships as part of its largest war games yet to simulate a blockade of the island. Taiwan responded by placing its forces on alert and condemning China as the “biggest destroyer of peace.”
The Eastern Theatre Command announced that the drills would continue until 6 p.m. in five locations surrounding Taiwan, involving naval and air force units practicing strikes on maritime and aerial targets, as well as anti-submarine operations. The exercises led to flight disruptions for over 100,000 international air travelers, with limited commercial flights available only to Japan through a northeast corridor.
China’s Maritime Safety Administration expanded designated zones for live-firing exercises on Monday, making the “Justice Mission 2025” drills the largest in terms of coverage and proximity to Taiwan. These drills came shortly after the U.S. approved a record $11.1 billion arms sale to Taiwan, triggering strong reactions from the Chinese defense ministry.
Analysts suggest that China’s war games, the sixth since 2022, aim to encircle Taiwan swiftly to neutralize its weapons arsenal and impede resupply efforts from Japan or nearby U.S. bases. The exercises are viewed as provocations by Taiwan, with concerns about China’s intentions and efforts to assert dominance over the region.
The Taiwanese government remains vigilant amid the military activities, closely monitoring any potential escalation by China. Despite the tensions, U.S. President Donald Trump downplayed concerns, citing China’s long history of naval exercises in the area and expressing confidence in his relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
Taiwan asserts its autonomy and rejects China’s claims of national unity, emphasizing that the island’s future should be determined by its people. The situation remains tense as China continues to flex its military muscle in the region.