According to Reuters, the exercises involve the deployment of warships, fighter jets, artillery, and other military assets, simulating attacks on maritime and land-based targets, as well as military blockades and encirclement tactics near Taiwan's major ports.
These drills are seen as part of China's continued efforts to assert its sovereignty over Taiwan, which it considers a breakaway province.
This latest round of military exercises follows increased U.S. support for Taiwan, highlighted by an $11.1 billion arms sale approved by Washington in recent weeks. This sale, the largest of its kind, has exacerbated the already tense situation, prompting Beijing to express its strong disapproval through military action.
China has framed the exercises as a warning against any form of "Taiwan independence" and external interference in its domestic affairs. The PLA's exercises focus on simulated strikes and a show of force, meant to underscore China's capability and readiness to take action if necessary.
Taiwan, in response, condemned the military drills as an act of military intimidation designed to undermine peace and stability in the region.
Taiwanese defense officials reported detecting a significant number of Chinese aircraft and naval vessels near the island, which prompted Taiwan's military to raise its alert levels and conduct its own rapid-response exercises.
Additionally, Taiwan highlighted its military readiness with footage of U.S.-supplied systems, such as the HIMARS rocket artillery, as a testament to its ability to defend itself against external threats.
Despite these escalatory moves, Taiwan's financial markets have remained relatively stable, with investors continuing to show confidence amid growing geopolitical pressure.
China's longstanding policy on Taiwan remains one of reunification, with Beijing.
Rania Umutoni
