Taiwan began its annual military exercises on Wednesday, simulating responses to a potential Chinese invasion and testing new defense tactics. The 10-day Han Kuang exercises are designed to evaluate the Taiwanese army's ability to conduct 24-hour defense operations and counter China's "gray-zone tactics," which fall short of open warfare.
This year's drills will mobilize over 5,000 reservists, the largest group to date, to assess their rapid transition from peacetime status to full active duty. Urban resilience drills are also a focus, with simulations planned in major cities to test the population's response to potential disruptions, including a temporary reduction in mobile internet speeds to mimic telecommunications interference.
The exercises will feature newly acquired M1A2T Abrams tanks, part of Taiwan's ongoing efforts to bolster its defenses. Taiwan primarily sources its military equipment from the United States, its main informal supporter against Beijing's territorial claims.
Beijing views democratic Taiwan as a breakaway province and has increased military pressure in recent years, frequently sending aircraft and warships near the island. Taiwan's parliament recently approved a supplementary budget of $24.8 billion for U.S. arms purchases, though this was less than President Lai Ching-te's proposed $40 billion. The island is also awaiting U.S. approval for a separate $14 billion arms sale package that has been pending for months. A previous $11 billion arms package was approved by former U.S. President Donald Trump and Congress.