China Conducts Live-Fire Naval and Air Drills Around Taiwan for Second Day

• China continued large-scale military drills around Taiwan, including live-fire rocket launches and naval deployments.

• Taiwan reported heightened military activity, with more than 130 aircraft and 22 vessels detected in a 24-hour period.

• The exercises simulate a blockade and strikes on maritime and port targets across multiple zones.

• Taiwan condemned the drills but stated it would not escalate tensions.

According to reporting by AFP and Reuters, China on Tuesday continued extensive military exercises around Taiwan, marking the second consecutive day of operations that include live-fire drills, naval maneuvers, and aerial deployments in waters surrounding the island.

Scope of the Military Exercises

China launched rockets and deployed warships, bombers, and amphibious assault vessels as part of the ongoing drills, which are aimed at rehearsing a potential blockade of Taiwan. Taiwan’s Defense Ministry confirmed that live-firing activities were taking place and said it detected more than 130 Chinese military aircraft and 22 navy and coast guard vessels operating around the island in the 24 hours up to 6 a.m. local time (2200 GMT).

The exercises, named “Justice Mission 2025,” involve live-fire drills across multiple zones encircling Taiwan. According to China’s Eastern Theater Command, the drills simulate strikes on maritime targets and key ports.

Chinese authorities stated that the exercises are scheduled to conclude at 6 p.m. on Tuesday and cover five large zones around Taiwan.

Official Statements and Strategic Context

Chinese military spokesperson Shi Yi described the drills as “a stern warning against ‘Taiwan Independence’ separatist forces, and…a legitimate and necessary action to safeguard China’s sovereignty and national unity,” according to state broadcaster CCTV.

On Monday, China said the drills were intended as “deterrence” against outside military intervention. The exercises come less than two weeks after the United States announced a record $11.1 billion (€9.43 billion) arms package to Taiwan, including missiles, drones, artillery systems, and military software.

Regional tensions have also been heightened following remarks from Japan indicating its military could become involved if China were to take action against Taiwan.

China’s top diplomat, Wang Yi, addressed the situation on Tuesday, stating: “In response to the continuous provocations by pro-independence forces in Taiwan and the large-scale US arms sales to Taiwan, we must resolutely oppose and strongly counter them,” during an end-of-the-year diplomatic event in Beijing.

Impact on Aviation and Maritime Activity

Taiwan’s Civil Aviation Authority reported that the drills have affected 11 of the island’s 14 flight routes, although disruption to international flights has remained limited. The live-fire zones and concentration of naval activity have added operational complexity in surrounding airspace and waters.

Taiwan’s Response

Taiwan President Lai Ching-te condemned the exercises as irresponsible but said that Taipei would not escalate tensions. Public reaction on the island reflected defiance rather than alarm.

“If you stand your ground, there’s nothing to be afraid of,” 80-year-old Tseng Chang-chih told AFP news agency. “War? Impossible. It’s just posturing. If they really attacked Taiwan, they would have to pay a price”
Taiwan remains self-governing, while Beijing continues to claim the island as part of its territory.