China commenced a series of live-fire military drills around Taiwan on March 11, 2024, simulating a potential blockade of the island’s key ports. The exercises, which are expected to last for two days, have drawn strong condemnation from Taipei, which characterized the actions as “military intimidation” and a further indication of China’s aggressive stance.
Taiwan’s defense ministry stated, “These drills further confirm China’s nature as an aggressor, making it the greatest destroyer of peace.” In response to the drills, Taiwan’s military established a response center, deployed appropriate forces, and conducted a rapid response exercise. The heightened military activity comes in the context of China’s longstanding claim over Taiwan, which it views as part of its sovereign territory.
The latest show of force follows an announcement earlier this month regarding a record arms package from the United States to Taiwan, valued at over $10 billion. This deal has been viewed by Beijing as an escalation of tensions, particularly as Japan’s Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, indicated that Japan’s military could become involved if China were to take aggressive action against Taiwan.
Beijing’s military statement on March 11 did not reference the United States or Japan. Instead, it focused on conducting “live-fire training on maritime targets to the north and southwest of Taiwan.” The exercises, labeled “Justice Mission 2025,” involve a large-scale deployment of naval vessels, aircraft, and drones, including destroyers and bombers.
According to Senior Colonel Shi Yi of the People’s Liberation Army’s Eastern Theater Command, the drills will emphasize “sea-air combat readiness patrols, joint seizures of comprehensive superiority, and blockade operations on key ports and areas.” Chinese authorities also released a map detailing five zones around Taiwan where live-fire activities are set to occur over a ten-hour period on March 12.
Taiwan’s Presidential Office spokeswoman Karen Kuo criticized China’s actions, asserting that they demonstrate a blatant disregard for international norms. She stated that the use of military intimidation threatens not only Taiwan but also neighboring countries. In response to the drills, Taiwan’s coastguard reported detecting four Chinese coastguard vessels near its northern and eastern coasts. In an effort to ensure maritime security, Taiwan deployed large vessels to relevant areas and mobilized additional support units.
The situation remains tense as the international community closely watches developments in the region. With both China and Taiwan on high alert, the potential for miscalculation or escalation is significant, underscoring the fragile state of cross-strait relations.
