China initiated extensive live-firing exercises around Taiwan on October 10, 2023, marking the second day of what has been described as its largest military drills to date. Lasting for ten hours, these exercises are part of a broader strategy aimed at severing Taiwan’s connections to external support in the event of a conflict. The drills, conducted by the Eastern Theatre Command, are scheduled to continue until 18:00 local time (10:00 GMT) over five designated areas surrounding the island.
The Maritime Safety Administration announced on October 9 the establishment of two additional zones for live-firing, reinforcing the scale and proximity of these drills compared to previous military exercises. Dubbed “Justice Mission 2025,” this operation signifies a notable escalation in military activity, with analysts interpreting it as a rehearsal for encircling Taiwan to neutralize its military capabilities and disrupt potential resupply efforts from Japan and U.S. bases in the region.
These exercises follow closely on the heels of the U.S. government’s announcement of an unprecedented $11.1 billion arms package to Taiwan, which has drawn sharp criticism from China. The Chinese defence ministry responded with warnings that the military would implement “forceful measures” in retaliation for perceived provocations.
Taiwan’s government has expressed serious concerns regarding these military maneuvers. A senior security official, speaking under conditions of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the situation, described the drills as a “blatant provocation” that could reshape international maritime norms, particularly given that the region is one of the world’s most crucial shipping lanes. The official indicated that Taiwan is closely monitoring the developments, especially whether China might escalate further, potentially including missile flights over Taiwan, reminiscent of the military exercises conducted in 2022 following former U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi‘s visit to the island.
“China is trying to assert its dominance over the entire island chain through extreme pressure tactics,” the official stated. The Chinese military has mobilized destroyers, bombers, and various units to conduct operations that test their capabilities in integrated sea and air force coordination, focusing on potential sea-based assaults and air defense strategies.
Taiwan maintains that its sovereignty is not subject to negotiation, asserting that only its citizens can determine the island’s future. As the situation unfolds, the international community watches closely, aware that the implications of these drills extend beyond regional tensions, potentially impacting global security dynamics.
Reporting by Joe Cash in Beijing and Yimou Lee in Taipei; editing by Lincoln Feast.
