ASIATODAY.ID, BEIJING – China has sharply escalated military pressure on Taiwan by launching large-scale war games around the self-governing island, signaling a more aggressive posture in the increasingly volatile Asia-Pacific region.
The drills, codenamed “Joint Sword–2025A,” are being conducted by the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) and involve warships, fighter jets, and live-fire artillery. The multi-day exercises simulate a blockade of Taiwan’s key ports, precision strikes on maritime targets, and scenarios aimed at countering foreign military intervention.
Chinese state media and defense officials described the drills as necessary to safeguard national sovereignty.
“The exercises focus on joint sea-air combat readiness patrols, comprehensive battlefield control, and precision strikes against key targets,” a PLA spokesperson said, calling the operation “essential for defending China’s territorial integrity.” on December 29, 2025.
Maritime and Air Pressure Escalates
Taiwan reported that Chinese coast guard vessels were also conducting what Beijing referred to as “law enforcement inspections” near Taiwan’s outlying islands. Taipei condemned the actions, warning that they further destabilize the region.
In response, Taiwan released footage showcasing its military preparedness, including US-supplied HIMARS rocket systems capable of striking targets in China’s coastal Fujian Province.
Taiwan’s coast guard has deployed larger patrol vessels to monitor Chinese movements while coordinating closely with the military to limit disruptions to international shipping lanes and fishing activities.
Triggered by Record US Arms Sale
The drills began just 11 days after the United States approved a US$11.1 billion arms sales package to Taiwan—the largest in the island’s history. The deal includes 82 HIMARS launchers, 420 ATACMS missiles, as well as anti-tank weapons, loitering munitions, howitzers, military software, and spare parts.
Taiwan has significantly increased its arms purchases in recent years with strong backing from Washington. While the US officially adheres to the One-China policy, it continues to supply advanced weaponry to Taiwan and maintain military ties with Taipei—moves Beijing views as a direct challenge to its sovereignty.
China has condemned the arms deal as a “dangerous and provocative act,” urging Washington to strictly observe the One-China principle and immediately halt arms sales to Taiwan.
Peaceful Rhetoric, Force Still an Option
Taiwan has been self-governed since 1949, after nationalist forces retreated to the island following their defeat in the Chinese Civil War. Although only a handful of countries maintain formal diplomatic relations with Taipei, most of the international community—including Russia and the United Nations—recognize Taiwan as part of China under the One-China framework.
Despite repeatedly emphasizing its goal of “peaceful reunification,” Beijing has made clear that the use of force remains on the table should Taiwan formally declare independence.
Analysts view the latest military drills as a stark warning that China is prepared to escalate further amid shifting global power dynamics and mounting geopolitical rivalry with the United States. (RT)
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