China initiated a series of live-fire military exercises around Taiwan on March 20, 2023, simulating a blockade of the island’s crucial ports. This action has drawn strong condemnation from Taiwan, which described Beijing’s maneuvers as “military intimidation.” The Taiwanese defense ministry stated that the 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 and deployed “appropriate forces.” The island’s defense strategy included a rapid response exercise, highlighting its readiness to counter any potential threats. Beijing maintains that Taiwan is part of its sovereign territory and has not dismissed the possibility of using military force to assert control over the self-ruled democracy.
The timing of these drills coincides with the recent announcement of a record arms sales package to Taiwan by the United States, valued at over $10 billion. This development has heightened tensions in the region, particularly as Japan’s Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, indicated that Japan’s military could intervene if China were to take aggressive action against Taiwan.
China’s military, while conducting the drills, did not mention the United States or Japan in its statements. Instead, it reported that the live-fire exercises would take place in maritime areas north and southwest of Taiwan. These large-scale exercises involve various military assets, including destroyers, frigates, fighters, bombers, and drones. A military spokesperson revealed that the operation, designated “Justice Mission 2025,” would feature army, navy, air force, and rocket force troops.
Details of the Military Exercises
According to Senior Colonel Shi Yi of the People’s Liberation Army’s Eastern Theater Command, the drills will focus on “sea-air combat readiness patrol, joint seizure of comprehensive superiority, blockade on key ports and areas, as well as all-dimensional deterrence outside the island chain.” Chinese authorities also provided a map indicating five large zones around Taiwan where live-fire activities would occur for ten hours on March 21, 2023. The military urged vessels and aircraft not involved in the exercises to steer clear of these areas for safety reasons.
Taiwan’s Presidential Office spokeswoman, Karen Kuo, condemned China for its “disregard for international norms” and for using military intimidation against neighboring countries. On the same day, Taiwan’s coastguard reported detecting four Chinese coastguard vessels operating off its northern and eastern coasts. In response, Taiwan’s coastguard deployed large vessels to relevant areas and sent additional support units to ensure readiness.
The increasing military assertiveness from China has raised concerns both regionally and internationally. As tensions escalate, the international community is closely monitoring the situation, particularly the implications for regional security and stability in East Asia.
As developments unfold, Taiwan continues to affirm its commitment to defending its sovereignty against external threats, while Beijing’s actions signal a determination to assert its claims over the island.
