- On Monday, troops from the First Theatre Command simulated repelling a Chinese air landing assault on the strategically vital Penghu Islands.
- President Lai inspected troops stationed in Taoyuan during the live-fire segment of the Han Kuang exercises, amid rain from Typhoon Dolphin.
- Later on Monday, the government will slow mobile internet speeds for the first time during the civil defence part of the drills, testing communication in emergencies.
- The Han Kuang exercises have been Taiwan's primary war games since 1984, aimed at testing the country's combat readiness in the event of a Chinese invasion.
- This year's 42nd edition of the tabletop war games was conducted from April 11-24, with the live-fire portion set to run from Wednesday last week to Friday.
- In Taipei, an exercise simulated using the MRT system to mobilize troops and equipment to defensive locations around the capital.
- In Penghu, the Navy Littoral Operations Command deployed its shore-based mobile anti-ship missile units, namely the Hsiung Feng II and Hsiung Feng III.
Taiwan's military simulated repelling a Chinese air landing assault on the strategically vital Penghu Islands during the ongoing Han Kuang exercises, which are aimed at testing the country's combat readiness against potential Chinese aggression. President William Lai inspected troops in northern Taoyuan amid Typhoon Dolphin rain, emphasizing the importance of preparation.1247
The drills, which began on April 11 and will run until April 24, include a live-fire segment where troops from the First Theatre Command opened fire on a beach in Penghu, utilizing M60A3 tanks and various artillery pieces to form a multi-layered defense against a simulated enemy landing. The exercise is crucial as Penghu is viewed as a potential first target for Beijing in any military conflict.
In a significant move, the government will slow mobile internet speeds for the first time during the civil defense portion of the drills, testing communication methods in emergencies. Key services like ATMs and emergency calls will remain unaffected, ensuring essential operations continue.3
Lai expressed gratitude to service members for their dedication despite adverse weather conditions, stating, “The country is safer and more capable of defending itself with better preparation.” The drills also aim to integrate reserve forces into operational planning, enhancing Taiwan's overall defense strategy.
The Han Kuang exercises, Taiwan's primary war games since 1984, are critical in demonstrating the island's resolve against China's sovereignty claims, which Taiwan firmly rejects.
“The live-fire drills, now in their fifth day, include urban defense exercises in Taipei using the MRT system and deployment of Hsiung Feng II and III anti-ship missiles in Penghu. President Lai, accompanied by Defense Minister Wellington Koo, urged troops to take care of themselves, saying better preparation ensures a safer country.”
Taipei Times
