Taiwan to simulate Chinese blockade in major military drills

Taiwan is set to simulate a Chinese blockade as part of its annual "Han Kuang" military exercises, a move designed to bolster the island's defenses against a potential invasion. Naval and coast guard ships will be deployed to protect "essential supplies" during the simulated blockade scenario in the waters east of the island. These exercises, scheduled to begin next week, are crucial for preparing both the military and the civilian population for a possible Chinese assault.

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) of China regularly dispatches ships and aircraft around Taiwan, asserting its claim over the self-ruled island. While an invasion remains a threat, Taiwanese officials also consider a quarantine or blockade of vital resources like energy as a plausible tactic Beijing might employ. The "anti-blockade" operations will include maritime law enforcement, patrols, and securing strategic routes, according to Major General Lu Wen-yuan of the Ministry of Defense.

"They will be conducted with live fire, involving real troops and equipment... to strengthen intervention capabilities and improve the effectiveness of defense operations," Lu stated. This year's "Han Kuang" exercises, running from August 5 to 14, will also assess the capacity of mobilized factories to sustain production during wartime and their potential for relocation. Urban preparedness drills are also planned to expose the population to potential communication disruptions, reflecting a broader government initiative to prepare for conflict or natural disasters.

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They will be conducted with live fire, involving real troops and equipment... to strengthen intervention capabilities and improve the effectiveness of defense operations