Why Taiwan’s Latest Military Drill Has the World Holding Its Breath

Taiwan is set to launch its most extensive military and civil defense drills in recent years, simulating a Chinese invasion and blockade of the island.

The annual Han Kuang military exercise begins July 9 and will run for 10 consecutive days, marking the longest and most intense version of the drill to date.

Over 22,000 reservists will be mobilized during the operation, as Taiwan ramps up preparations in the face of increasing military and political pressure from Beijing.

President Warns of ‘War Without Gun Smoke’

Speaking ahead of the drill, President Lai Ching-te warned that Taiwan is already facing an invisible war, driven by disinformation, cyberattacks, and political infiltration from China.

“Today’s democratic, free, and prosperous Taiwan is the result of our people’s courage and unity,” Lai said. “We’ve always stood strong in the face of pressure.”

China continues to claim Taiwan as part of its territory, despite widespread opposition from both Taiwan’s government and public.

Drill Scenarios Include Amphibious Assault and Missile Alerts

Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense confirmed that the Han Kuang drill will include:

• Simulated joint fire attacks
• Naval and air precision strikes
• Sea-based landings by a mock enemy force
• Urban evacuation drills
• Missile alert systems and civil defense coordination

Defense official Tung Chih-hsing said the island’s forces will showcase their ability to strike back through a coordinated “chain of attacks.”

The military also stands ready to upgrade combat readiness if China launches retaliatory drills during or after the exercise.

In addition to military maneuvers, Taiwan will also conduct nationwide civil defense drills, especially in major urban centers like Taipei.

These will include temporary business shutdowns, traffic halts, and evacuation drills to test emergency response systems.

Political Stakes Ahead of Recall Vote

The drill comes at a sensitive political time. President Lai has started a national tour delivering unity-themed speeches ahead of a July 26 recall vote, which targets nearly one-fourth of Taiwan’s lawmakers — mostly from the opposition Kuomintang (KMT) party.

Activists supporting the recall argue that pro-Beijing lawmakers are undermining Taiwan’s sovereignty, a claim the KMT strongly denies.

As military tensions rise and political debate intensifies, Taiwan’s upcoming drill sends a strong message of readiness and resilience.

The global community will be watching closely as the island simulates defense against a scenario once considered unthinkable: a Chinese invasion.

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