Taiwan Army's 542nd Brigade Unleashes Full Firepower in Lian Yong Exercise

Taiwan's Army Armored 542nd Brigade has commenced its annual "Lian Yong" live-fire exercise at the Hengchun Tri-Service Joint Training Base in Pingtung. The rigorous drill, a key event for the nation's ground forces, began with a night attack and continued with a full-force live-fire assault on July 1st.

The exercise showcased a formidable display of firepower, with various heavy weapons, tank cannons, and close air support systems engaging targets. The thunderous artillery fire echoed across the Hengchun Peninsula, drawing a large crowd of military enthusiasts who braved the southern Taiwan sun to observe the demonstration from vantage points around the base.

This year's drill involved a significant portion of Taiwan's front-line combat units. The opening phase included simulated attacks by Air Force fighter jets and OH-58D attack helicopters firing rockets, aimed at neutralizing enemy beachhead forces. This was followed by naval large-caliber naval gunfire, highlighting joint operational capabilities.

The Armored 542nd Brigade then took center stage, deploying an impressive arsenal. This included 105mm tank cannons, M240 machine guns, 81mm and 120mm mortars, and 155mm howitzers, all firing in unison. The exercise area was engulfed in smoke and fire, demonstrating the troops' highly refined combined arms combat proficiency. The sheer density and variety of munitions fired, from standard infantry rifles to heavy artillery and anti-tank missiles, underscored the comprehensive nature of the training.