China Stages Record Military Exercises Around Taiwan Amid US Arms Deal

China Stages Record Military Exercises Around Taiwan Amid US Arms Deal

China on Tuesday deployed warships, fighter jets and artillery units in its largest-ever military exercises around Taiwan, simulating a full blockade of the self-governed island amid rising regional tensions.

The drills, codenamed “Justice Mission 2025,” involved China’s army, navy, air force and rocket force, and featured live-fire exercises, simulated strikes on land and sea targets, and coordinated operations aimed at sealing off Taiwan’s ports and surrounding airspace.

China’s Eastern Theater Command, which oversees operations in the Taiwan Strait, said the exercises were intended to deter what it described as “separatist forces” in Taiwan and “external interference.” Beijing’s foreign ministry characterised the drills as a “severe punishment” for pro-independence elements and warned outside powers against “using Taiwan to contain China.”

State media released footage of Chinese warships, combat aircraft and artillery units mobilising across multiple zones encircling Taiwan. China’s Maritime Safety Administration designated a record seven live-fire zones, covering a wider area and operating closer to Taiwan than in previous drills.

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The exercises come days after the United States approved an $11.1bn arms package for Taiwan, prompting strong protests from Beijing and sanctions against US defence companies. Analysts say the timing signals China’s intent to send a firm warning to both Taipei and Washington.

Taiwan’s presidential office condemned the drills, describing them as a threat to regional stability and international norms. The island’s defence ministry said it detected dozens of Chinese military aircraft and vessels operating around Taiwan and placed its forces on high alert, deploying aircraft, naval units and missile systems.

“Our armed forces are prepared for the worst and must consider every possible scenario,” a senior Taiwanese defence official said, warning that live-fire drills in the Taiwan Strait pose risks to neighbouring countries as well as international shipping and aviation.

Taiwan’s aviation authority said flights were being rerouted after China declared temporary danger zones, while the coast guard deployed large patrol vessels to monitor Chinese ships near Taiwan’s waters.

China has accused Taiwan President Lai Ching-te of pursuing independence, a claim he denies. Lai maintains that Taiwan is already a sovereign state and says his administration seeks to preserve the status quo while strengthening the island’s defences. Polls consistently show that most Taiwanese favour maintaining the current situation.

Since 2022, China has intensified military pressure on Taiwan, staging repeated large-scale drills in response to what it views as provocative actions, including closer US–Taiwan security ties. The latest manoeuvres mark the sixth major exercise since then and the first under Eastern Theater Command commander Yang Zhibin.

Chinese media said the drills were designed to demonstrate Beijing’s ability to cut Taiwan off from external support, with emphasis on blocking deep-water ports and key supply routes, while showcasing advanced systems such as drones and robotic platforms.

China Stages Record Military Exercises Around Taiwan Amid US Arms Deal