China conducted a large-scale military exercise surrounding Taiwan on Monday, employing warships, its first aircraft carrier, and dozens of aircraft. The "Joint Sword 2024-B" drill was a follow-up to a previous exercise earlier this year. China's military, the People's Liberation Army, announced the exercises, which were aimed at testing joint operations capabilities and sending a warning to Taiwan.
During the exercise, Chinese troops engaged in joint drills focusing on sea-air combat-readiness, blockade on key ports, assault on maritime and ground targets, and joint seizure of comprehensive superiority. The aim was to test the joint operations capabilities of the theater command's troops and serve as a stern warning to Taiwan.
Taiwan condemned the exercises as irrational and provocative, mobilizing its forces to monitor the exercise. The Taiwanese Ministry of National Defense reported multiple Chinese aircraft and naval vessels operating around Taiwan, with a record number entering Taiwan's air defense identification zone.
China highlighted its CNS Liaoning aircraft carrier task group, showcasing vessel-aircraft coordination, joint air suppression, and fire strikes on sea and ground targets. Analysts and the Ministry of Defense shared maps showing the Chinese navy and coast guard effectively surrounding Taiwan, simulating blockades and maneuvers.
The drills come amid tensions between China and Taiwan, with Beijing viewing Taiwan as its sovereign territory and not ruling out the use of military force for unification. The frequency and scale of these military exercises suggest China's efforts to normalize its presence in the area, intimidate Taiwan, and exhaust Taipei's military and resources.
In response, Taiwan's President Lai condemned China's actions, stating that they aimed to undermine stability and the status quo. While Taiwan remains open to dialogue, it is determined to protect its free and democratic constitutional system. The exercises demonstrate the ongoing military tensions between China and Taiwan, with both sides continuing to assert their positions.