Han Kuang 42: First Operational Command conducts live-fire drills in Penghu

The shores of Penghu echoed with the thunder of artillery on a recent morning as Taiwan's military staged a critical live-fire exercise. Part of the ongoing Han Kuang 42 drills, the demonstration simulated a swift enemy landing, testing the rapid response capabilities of forces defending the strategic island.

Under the pre-dawn sky, tracer rounds illuminated the sea before a barrage of artillery fire erupted. The display showcased the integration of various forces, aiming to refine command procedures and familiarize troops with their weaponry. The objective was to validate joint combat command and control, illustrating a strategy of multi-layered firepower to suppress and annihilate an invading force deep within defenses.

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Facing the current enemy threat and increasing day by day, we will continue to devote ourselves to battlefield operations, integrate the tri-service combat power of the defense area, and strengthen defensive resilience.

The exercise included scenarios for air defense engagement, alert unit combat, and anti-airborne operations. Various machine guns created dense anti-air networks, while multiple artillery pieces provided long-range suppression. Tanks and armored vehicles swept the battlefield, effectively clearing simulated enemy forces and highlighting the troops' rigorous training.

Participating weaponry ranged from M60A3 tanks and various howitzers to mortars, machine guns, drones, and rifles. The First Operational Command stated that in the face of escalating enemy threats, they will continue to enhance battlefield operations, integrate tri-service capabilities, and strengthen defensive resilience. They reaffirmed a commitment to defending national security with a resolve of "one island, one life, fighting to the end" and the belief of "guarding our beautiful homeland."

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We will uphold the determination of 'one island, one life, fighting to the end' and the firm belief of 'guarding our beautiful homeland' to defend national security.