China has initiated a significant military exercise encircling Taiwan, marking a major escalation in regional tensions. The drills, which commenced on Monday, come amidst heightened friction between Beijing and Tokyo over the status of the self-ruled island.
Scope and Scale of the Military Maneuvers
Senior Colonel Shi Yi, spokesperson for the PLA Eastern Theater Command, announced the deployment of Army, Navy, Air Force, and Rocket Force troops starting December 29. The operations are codenamed 'Justice Mission 2025'.
Colonel Shi detailed that the activities would focus on several key areas:
- Sea and air combat readiness patrols.
- Joint efforts to seize comprehensive superiority.
- A blockade on key ports and areas.
- All-dimensional deterrence outside the island chain.
A separate statement, accompanied by a map, delineated five large zones surrounding Taiwan where live firing activities are scheduled. These exercises are set for Tuesday, from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm local time (0000 to 1000 GMT). The statement sternly advised all non-participating vessels and aircraft to avoid the designated waters and airspace for safety reasons.
A Warning to 'Taiwan Independence' and External Forces
The Chinese military framed the drills as a direct response to perceived provocations. Colonel Shi stated the exercises serve as "a stern warning against 'Taiwan Independence' separatist forces" and are a "legitimate and necessary action to safeguard China's sovereignty and national unity."
He revealed that plans involve naval vessels "approaching the Taiwan Island in close proximity from different directions," with the "joint assaults" intended to test the forces' operational capabilities. Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence reported tracking two sorties of Chinese aircraft and nine naval vessels operating around the island as of 6 a.m. on Monday, confirming they were monitoring the situation.
Broader Context of Rising Regional Tensions
This large-scale show of force occurs against a backdrop of escalating diplomatic rows. The recent tensions were ignited by comments from Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi last month, suggesting Tokyo might consider a military response if force is used against Taiwan. Beijing reacted sharply, demanding a retraction, summoning Japan's ambassador, and issuing travel warnings for its citizens.
Furthermore, the drills follow the latest round of US arms sales to Taipei, valued at $11 billion, which prompted an angry response from China. Just last week, Beijing imposed sanctions on 20 US defence firms in retaliation. China, which views Taiwan as an inalienable part of its territory, has never renounced the use of force to achieve reunification.
This is the most extensive military activity since the surprise live-fire drills conducted by China around Taiwan in April, which were condemned by Taipei. The ongoing 'Justice Mission 2025' exercises underscore the volatile and highly militarized nature of the Taiwan Strait, with major global powers closely watching the unfolding developments.
