China Fires Rockets Near Taiwan in Major War Games Simulating Island Blockade

Post by : Saif

China has sharply increased military pressure on Taiwan by firing rockets into nearby waters and carrying out large-scale war games that simulate a blockade of the island. The drills, named “Justice Mission 2025,” are the biggest and closest exercises China has ever conducted around Taiwan, according to military analysts.

On Tuesday, China’s Eastern Theatre Command said it carried out live-firing drills for nearly 10 hours. Rockets were launched into waters north and south of Taiwan, while Chinese warships, bomber aircraft, and advanced amphibious assault ships were deployed around the island. The exercises affected air and sea space in five zones surrounding Taiwan.

Videos released by the Chinese military showed mobile rocket launchers firing into the sea. These launchers, known as PCH-191 systems, are long-range weapons that Chinese state media say can strike any point on Taiwan. Taiwan’s defence officials said debris from the drills entered waters close to the island.

The drills began shortly after the United States announced a record $11.1 billion arms package for Taiwan. Beijing strongly opposes U.S. military support for Taiwan, which China considers part of its territory. Taiwan, however, is a self-governed democracy and rejects China’s claims.

Chinese forces also practised naval and air attacks, anti-submarine operations, and simulated strikes on key targets. Taiwanese security sources said China appeared to be rehearsing attacks on U.S.-made weapons systems such as HIMARS rocket launchers, which Taiwan uses for coastal defence.

Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te said the island’s frontline troops were ready to defend the country but stressed that Taiwan does not want to escalate tensions. The defence ministry confirmed that Chinese military aircraft and ships were operating very close to Taiwan, with more than 130 aircraft and over 20 naval and coastguard vessels detected in just 24 hours.

The exercises disrupted travel and shipping. Taiwan’s Civil Aviation Authority said several flight routes were affected, though international flights continued. Routes to Taiwan’s nearby islands of Kinmen and Matsu were blocked, affecting thousands of passengers. Coastguard vessels from both sides also faced off at sea, closely shadowing each other.

Experts warn that a real blockade would have serious global consequences. The Taiwan Strait is one of the world’s busiest trade routes, with trillions of dollars in goods passing through each year. Any long-term disruption could affect global supply chains, energy markets, and international trade.

China also used the drills to showcase new military hardware, including its Type 075 amphibious assault ship. This vessel can carry helicopters, landing craft, tanks, and armoured vehicles, and is designed for large-scale landing operations.

Recent reports from the U.S. Pentagon suggest China aims to be ready to fight and win a war over Taiwan by 2027. While China continues to modernise its military, questions remain about its readiness due to internal corruption crackdowns and financial pressures within defence companies.

For now, the war games serve as a strong warning signal. They show China’s growing military confidence and its willingness to use forceful actions to pressure Taiwan, even as the risk of conflict in the region continues to rise.

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