China conducted live-firing exercises around Taiwan lasting 10 hours, involving new amphibious assault ships, bomber aircraft, and warships as part of its largest-ever war games focused on practicing a blockade of the island. Taiwan responded by putting its forces on alert and criticizing China as the “biggest disruptor of peace.”
The Eastern Theatre Command stated that the drills would continue until 6 p.m. local time in the sea and airspace surrounding Taiwan, with naval and air force units conducting strikes on maritime and aerial targets, as well as anti-submarine operations in the north and south of the island. Taiwan’s aviation authority announced flight cancellations affecting over 100,000 international air travelers, with limited access to Japan through a northeast corridor due to blocked routes to Kinmen and Matsu islands near China’s coast.
China’s Maritime Safety Administration expanded the designated zones for live-firing exercises on the second day, making the “Justice Mission 2025” drills the most extensive in terms of coverage and proximity to Taiwan compared to previous exercises. These exercises commenced following the U.S.’s announcement of a record $11.1 billion arms package to Taiwan, sparking strong reactions from the Chinese defense ministry.
Analysts suggest that the war games, China’s sixth major round since 2022, aim to simulate a swift encirclement of Taiwan to dismantle its weapon reserves and impede efforts to resupply the island from Japan or nearby U.S. bases. A senior Taiwan security official condemned the maneuvers as a provocative attempt to reshape the international order to China’s advantage.
With $2.45 trillion in trade passing through the Taiwan Strait annually, the airspace above the island serves as a crucial corridor connecting China with the markets of East and Southeast Asia. Taiwan is closely monitoring China’s actions during the drills, particularly regarding potential provocative moves such as flying missiles over the island.
The Chinese military disclosed the deployment of destroyers, bombers, and other units to conduct sea-based assaults, air defense, and anti-submarine operations to test the coordination of sea and air forces for integrated containment and control. Taiwan’s defense ministry reported significant Chinese military presence with 130 aircraft and 22 navy and coast guard vessels operating around the island.
U.S. President Donald Trump expressed unawareness of the military exercises beforehand, citing China’s long history of naval drills in the region. Trump, emphasizing his positive relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping, downplayed concerns of a potential attack on Taiwan. Taiwan reiterated its stance on rejecting China’s claims of national unity, emphasizing that the island’s future should be determined by its people.