Taiwan has kicked off its biggest and longest Han Kuang military exercise to date, a critical show of force as concerns grow over the threat of a potential Chinese invasion.
This year’s drills, which began Wednesday and will run until 18 July, double the duration of previous years and aim to test Taiwan’s readiness under real-world combat conditions. They also serve a dual purpose: to prepare the island’s armed forces and civilians for war, and to send a strategic message of deterrence to Beijing.
What Is the Han Kuang Exercise?
First held in 1984, the Han Kuang drills are Taiwan’s premier annual military exercise, involving large-scale land, sea, and air operations. Thousands of troops participate each year in simulations designed to repel a potential Chinese attack.
Despite its name — which historically referred to reclaiming mainland China — the modern exercise focuses solely on defending Taiwan.
Key Features of the 2025 Dril.
This year’s edition features:
-Unscripted combat scenarios** to better simulate real-time responses to surprise attacks — a significant improvement that military experts say was long overdue.
New weapon systems**, including U.S.-supplied HIMARS rocket launchers, which have significantly longer range and were notably used in Ukraine.
22,000 reservists, a 50% increase from last year.
Live-fire exercises** deploying rocket systems, drones, and domestically developed missiles.
- Civil defense participation, where civilians practice evacuations and air raid drills, highlighting the island’s whole-of-society approach to national security.
In April, Taiwan also conducted preparatory computer-simulated war games, part of a broader effort to integrate digital warfare planning.
A Response to China’s Greyzone Tactics
A significant part of the drills will address greyzone warfare — non-traditional military pressure tactics China has ramped up in recent years, including frequent incursions by fighter jets and naval vessels into Taiwan’s airspace and waters.
China considers Taiwan a breakaway province and has not ruled out using force to achieve reunification. Rising tensions have sparked fears of a broader regional conflict that could involve key allies like the United States.
With Han Kuang 2025, Taiwan aims to strengthen its military readiness, boost public resilience, and make clear to Beijing that it is prepared to defend its sovereignty.
