What's happened
China has begun its sixth large-scale military exercise around Taiwan, involving live-fire drills and zone restrictions, following US arms sales and Japanese security comments. The drills aim to deter Taiwan independence and signal China's sovereignty claims amid rising regional tensions.
What's behind the headline?
China's military drills around Taiwan are increasingly sophisticated and politically charged. The exercises serve multiple strategic purposes: deterring Taiwanese independence, warning external powers like the US and Japan, and testing joint military capabilities. The deployment of fighter jets, bombers, and long-range rockets, along with port blockades, indicates a shift from routine training to potential stage-setting for an attack. The propaganda posters, depicting shields and arrows, reinforce Beijing's narrative of defending sovereignty and crushing separatism. The timing—following US arms sales and Japanese security statements—suggests China aims to project strength and dissuade foreign intervention. This escalation reduces the likelihood of de-escalation and increases the risk of miscalculation, which could lead to conflict. The regional impact is significant, as neighboring countries watch closely, and the US and allies face increased pressure to respond without provoking full-scale conflict. The drills will likely continue to evolve, with China seeking to normalize military pressure as a means of coercion and deterrence, making future escalation a real possibility.
What the papers say
The Japan Times reports that the exercises involve sea-air combat readiness, joint seizure operations, and blockade simulations, emphasizing their strategic purpose. France 24 highlights the drills' timing after US arms sales and Japanese security comments, noting China's intent to deter external interference. Al Jazeera underscores China's anger over US arms sales and Japan's stance, framing the drills as a response to perceived threats. The Independent and AP News detail the drills' scope, including live-fire exercises and zone restrictions, and China's messaging about sovereignty and deterrence. All sources agree that these exercises mark a significant escalation in China's military posture toward Taiwan, with potential implications for regional stability and international relations.
How we got here
China's military exercises around Taiwan have increased since 2022, following US Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to the island. Beijing considers Taiwan part of its territory and has repeatedly conducted drills to assert sovereignty. Recent exercises are intensified after the US approved a record arms package for Taiwan and Japanese officials suggested possible military involvement, heightening regional tensions.
Go deeper
Common question
-
Why is China conducting military drills around Taiwan?
China's recent large-scale military exercises around Taiwan have raised global concern. These drills are part of China's efforts to assert sovereignty and deter independence movements, especially in response to US arms sales and Japanese security comments. But what exactly is happening, and what does it mean for regional stability? Below, we explore the key questions about China's military actions and their implications.
-
What Are the Key Global Conflicts in 2025?
2025 has seen a surge in international tensions and conflicts that are shaping the world stage. From regional disputes to geopolitical shifts, understanding these issues is crucial. Below, we explore the main conflicts happening right now, how they connect, and what they mean for everyday life worldwide.
-
How Are Countries Responding to Major Security Threats in 2025?
In 2025, the world faces a series of complex security challenges, from terrorist attacks to regional military tensions. Countries are adopting new measures, forming alliances, and balancing civil liberties with national security. Curious about how nations are tackling these threats and what the future holds? Read on to find out the latest responses and strategies shaping global security today.
More on these topics
-
Taiwan, officially the Republic of China, is a country in East Asia. Neighbouring countries include the People's Republic of China to the northwest, Japan to the northeast, and the Philippines to the south.
-
Japan is an island country of East Asia in the northwest Pacific Ocean. It borders the Sea of Japan to the west and extends from the Sea of Okhotsk in the north to the East China Sea and Taiwan in the south.
-
Sanae Takaichi is a conservative Japanese politician.
-
China, officially the People's Republic of China, is a country in East Asia. It is the world's most populous country, with a population of around 1.4 billion in 2019.