In a move to bolster its defense capabilities, Taiwan’s military is set to commence a five-day combat readiness exercise this week. This initiative is part of a broader modernization plan aimed at transitioning from traditional set-piece events to more realistic, war-simulation exercises.
The exercise, dubbed the Immediate Combat Readiness Exercise is scheduled to run from Monday to Friday. It underscores Taiwan’s response to the persistent military activities by China’s armed forces in the skies and seas surrounding the island. These activities are seen as an effort to pressure Taiwan into accepting Chinese sovereignty, a claim vehemently opposed by the government in Taipei.
Taiwan’s Strategic Shift in Military Training
The exercise is designed to prepare units at all levels to become familiar with combat practices and the battlefield environment during the readiness deployment phase. It emphasizes the importance of rapid peacetime-to-wartime transitions and priority deployments.
According to the defence ministry, the drill will involve actual troops on actual terrain using actual equipment in real time. This approach aims to hone command mechanisms and enhance the troops’ combat-oriented capabilities. Key areas of focus include improving joint operations command and controllogistical sustainment and battlefield preparation.
China’s Military Activities Near Taiwan
The announcement of the exercise coincides with reports of China sending a large number of military aircraft near Taiwan. On the same day, the defence ministry reported that China had dispatched 21 aircraft including J-16 fightersKJ-500 airborne early warning and control aircraft and Y-20 aerial refuelling aircraft.
Of these, 19 aircraft entered the airspace to Taiwan’s southwest and into the Western Pacific to conduct long-distance training over open seas. Taiwan responded by deploying its own forces to monitor and respond appropriately to the situation.
Taiwan’s Ongoing Military Preparedness
Taiwan regularly conducts military drills to maintain its readiness. Earlier this month, the island nation tested its new U.S.-made HIMARS rocket system which has been widely used by Ukraine. This system was fired into the Taiwan Strait as part of ongoing training exercises.
The main annual Han Kuang war games are expected to take place in August further demonstrating Taiwan’s commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities. As tensions in the region continue to rise, these exercises play a crucial role in preparing Taiwan’s military for any potential threats.
