Taiwan Launches Largest Han Kuang Drills Simulating Chinese Invasion

Taiwan is set to conduct its largest-ever Han Kuang military exercises starting July 9, lasting ten days with over 22,000 reservists participating, to simulate a Chinese blockade and amphibious invasion amid escalating threats from Beijing. The drills will involve joint military scenarios such as precision naval and air strikes and coordinated fire attacks, alongside civil defense training including missile alerts and evacuation procedures in major cities like Taipei. Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te emphasized that the island is already confronting a new form of warfare characterized by Chinese cyberattacks, disinformation, and infiltration efforts, which he described as a "war without gun smoke." The exercises reflect Taiwan’s determination to strengthen both military readiness and civilian protection, demonstrating the resilience and unity of its people. China considers Taiwan its territory and has increased military provocations, including frequent incursions into Taiwan’s air defense identification zone and simulated encirclement drills in the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan’s defense officials stated they will raise combat readiness if China responds with its own military drills, while Beijing has yet to officially comment on this year's exercises.