Taiwan holds its most expansive annual drills lasting 10 days

Taiwan is set to commence its largest military drills, the Han Kuang exercises, starting Wednesday and lasting 10 days, doubling the usual duration. Over 20,000 reservists are being mobilized, highlighting a significant civilian involvement, with some basements used as air-raid shelters.

President Lai Ching-te aims to strengthen Taiwan’s defenses against Chinese aggression, emphasizing both military and civil resilience. The drills will feature urban warfare tactics and test new weaponry, including drones, reflecting Taiwan's response to increased Chinese military pressure.

Lai has urged public unity against China's threats while Taiwan's military prepares for potential invasions. This year's exercises also address misinformation and other gray-zone tactics used by China.