China–Taiwan Tensions Rise as Beijing Launches Massive Military Drills

China has escalated military pressure on Taiwan with large-scale live-fire drills, codenamed Justice Mission 2025. The exercises involve warships, fighter jets, artillery, and simulated strikes, with manoeuvres concentrated in the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan has mobilised troops for rapid response and condemned Beijing’s actions, stressing its commitment to defend democracy and freedom. The drills follow the US approval of $11.1 billion in arms sales to Taiwan, intensifying regional tensions. Taiwan’s coast guard has also deployed ships to safeguard shipping lanes and fishing zones amid Chinese military activity.

Dec 29, 2025 0 17

China has intensified military pressure on Taiwan by conducting large-scale live-fire exercises around the island, prompting Taipei to place its forces on high alert.

Escalation Around the Island

Taiwan’s defence ministry reported that Chinese military activity surged in the past 24 hours, with two aircraft and 11 naval vessels operating near the island.

Taiwan’s Response

The Taiwanese military announced readiness for “rapid response exercises,” designed to swiftly mobilise troops if drills escalate into an actual attack. “Our armed forces will remain vigilant and take concrete action to defend democracy and freedom,” the ministry stated.

Justice Mission 2025

China’s Eastern Theatre Command confirmed the manoeuvres, codenamed Justice Mission 2025. The operation involves warships, fighter jets, artillery, and thousands of troops, concentrated in the northern and southwestern regions of the Taiwan Strait. Live firing and simulated strikes targeted both land and maritime zones, with plans to continue drills that rehearse blockades of Taiwan’s ports and encirclement of the island.

Close Encounters

According to a Reuters report, dozens of Chinese military ships and aircraft were observed near Taiwan, some deliberately approaching the island’s contiguous zone, which extends 24 nautical miles from its coast.

Triggered by US Arms Sales

The exercises follow just 11 days after Washington approved $11.1 billion in arms sales to Taiwan—the largest package ever sanctioned. Beijing condemned the deal and warned of “forceful measures” in retaliation.

Taiwan Condemns Beijing’s Actions

Taiwan’s government strongly criticised the drills. Its defence ministry released footage of its arsenal, including US-made HIMARS rocket systems capable of striking targets up to 300 km away, such as China’s Fujian province. Meanwhile, Taiwan’s coast guard deployed large vessels to counter Chinese activity near its waters, coordinating with the military to safeguard shipping lanes and fishing zones.