China holds live-fire military drills amid growing tensions in Taiwan

China on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, was said to be holding live-fire military drills, showcasing its advanced long-range strike capabilities.

It comes as tensions with Taiwan continue to rise.

The exercises code-named “Strait Thunder-2025A”, involve air, naval, ground, and missile forces.

Simulating attacks on key targets was its focus. The targets included Taiwan’s Yong’an LNG terminal.

The drills feature China’s state-of-the-art PHL-191 Multiple Launch Rocket System which can fire precision-guided rockets with ranges of up to 280 kilometers.

This system is part of China’s growing military capabilities, aimed at deterring US. intervention and strengthening Beijing’s control over regional disputes.

Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense has reported a significant increase in Chinese military activity.

It says 76 aircraft and over 20 naval vessels entered Taiwan’s air defense identification zone (ADIZ) during the exercises.

The U.S. has reiterated its commitment to Taiwan’s defense under the Taiwan Relation Act, warning China against aggressive actions.

The situation remains volatile, with Taiwan on high alert and the international community watching closely.

The exercises are seen as a demonstration of China’s growing naval capabilities and a signal to Taipei and its allies, particularly the U.S.

These drills, which include various types of weapons and military maneuvers, are typically aimed at demonstrating China’s military capabilities.

They also aim at readiness to defend its territorial claims, particularly regarding Taiwan.

The Chinese government has been increasingly vocal about its desire to reunite Taiwan with the mainland.

It said that any move by Taiwan toward independence is met with fierce opposition from Beijing.

In response to these drills, Taiwan has heightened its own military preparedness.

This comes while the United States and other international actors have expressed concern over the potential for escalation.

This development adds to the already fraught atmosphere in the region, where geopolitical dynamics, military posturing, and concerns over stability continue to grow.

The live-fire drills are often seen as a direct message to Taiwan, as well as to the international community, that China is serious about asserting control over the region.

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