China on Monday launched a new round of large-scale War Drills around Taiwan, sending warships and fighter jets into areas surrounding the self-governed island in what Beijing described as a warning against “separatist forces.” The exercises, which included simulated blockades of key sea lanes and ports, immediately raised tensions across the Taiwan Strait and drew concern from the United States and regional allies.
According to China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA), the War Drills were designed to test joint operations involving the navy, air force and rocket forces. State media said the exercises focused on precision strikes, maritime interception and the control of critical shipping routes a clear signal of Beijing’s growing emphasis on denying access to Taiwan in the event of a conflict.
Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense confirmed that dozens of Chinese military aircraft and multiple naval vessels were detected operating near the island during the latest War Drills. In response, Taiwan scrambled its own aircraft, deployed naval patrols and activated missile defense systems to closely monitor the activity.
Taiwan’s government condemned the War Drills, accusing China of “military intimidation,” while its defense ministry said it was “fully on guard” and would “take concrete action to defend the values of democracy and freedom.”
The War Drills announced Monday were aimed at sharpening precision strike capabilities, boosting combat readiness and practicing what officials called “systemic” blockade and control operations, along with “deterrence outside the island chain,” according to Shi Yi, spokesperson for the Eastern Theater Command a reference to strategic lines seen as crucial in any potential regional military conflict.
China’s ruling Communist Party claims the self-governing democracy of Taiwan as its own territory, despite never having controlled it, and has repeatedly used large-scale War Drills to reinforce its vow to take control of the island, by force if necessary a stance that has kept cross-strait tensions on edge for decades.
President said Taiwan would remain calm but firm, reaffirming that the island would “stand together to defend democracy and freedom.” He urged the public not to panic, while emphasizing that Taiwan’s armed forces are fully capable of protecting the nation’s security.
The latest drills come amid renewed friction between Beijing and Washington, following a recent U.S. arms sale package to Taiwan that included air defense systems, surveillance equipment and spare parts for fighter jets. China sharply criticized the deal, accusing the United States of interfering in its internal affairs and undermining regional stability.
US arms deal and rising tensions
Washington recognizes the People’s Republic of China as the sole legitimate government of China, but maintains close unofficial ties with Taipei, ties that have grown stronger in recent years as tensions and Chinese War Drills around Taiwan have increased.
Under the Taiwan Relations Act, the United States is bound by law to help ensure that the island has the means to defend itself, especially as Beijing continues to stage large-scale War Drills near Taiwan’s airspace and sea lanes.
As part of that commitment, Washington regularly supplies Taiwan with defensive weaponry, training support and surveillance equipment, moves U.S. officials say are aimed at preserving stability in the Taiwan Strait and deterring further War Drills from escalating into open conflict.
The latest War Drills also come in the wake of a fresh U.S. arms deal with Taiwan, which includes air defense systems, radar upgrades and maintenance support for fighter jets. Beijing said the package undermines regional stability and accused Washington of “playing with fire,” warning that such moves could further fuel tensions across the Taiwan Strait.
Beijing considers Taiwan part of its territory and has not ruled out the use of force to bring the island under its control. Taiwan, however, rejects Beijing’s sovereignty claims and maintains that only its people can decide their future.
Military analysts say the drills appear to be a rehearsal for potential blockade scenarios rather than an immediate invasion. By demonstrating its ability to cut off major ports and shipping routes, China is signaling that it could pressure Taiwan economically and militarily without launching a full-scale assault.
The United States said it was closely monitoring the situation. A State Department spokesperson reiterated Washington’s commitment to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, calling on all sides to avoid actions that could escalate tensions.
Regional partners, including Japan and Australia, also expressed concern, warning that any disruption to shipping lanes around Taiwan could have serious consequences for global trade, particularly for semiconductor supply chains.
Despite the heightened military activity, Taiwanese officials stressed that daily life on the island continues as normal. “We will not be intimidated,” a senior defense official said. “Taiwan will continue to protect its democratic system and its way of life.”