China simulates total blockade of Taiwan in massive 'Justice Mission 2025' drills
China launched missiles toward Taiwan on Tuesday and deployed amphibious assault ships, bombers, and warships around the island. This marks the second day of Beijing’s most extensive military exercises to date, designed to simulate a total blockade of Taiwan.
The Chinese military’s Eastern Theater Command stated that the drills, named "Justice Mission 2025," include live-fire exercises in five maritime and air zones surrounding Taiwan and along the Chinese coast. These maneuvers began just 11 days after the United States announced a record $11.1 billion military aid package for Taipei.
Military escalation and strategic response
Chinese naval and air units practiced strikes against maritime targets and conducted anti-submarine operations to the north and south of the island. A senior Taiwanese security official told Reuters that authorities in Taipei are closely monitoring the situation.
The official highlighted the possibility of Beijing launching missiles over the island’s territory. Such a precedent was set in 2022 following the visit of former U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
Taiwan denounces irresponsible behavior
Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te described China’s actions as "inconsistent with the responsibilities of a global power." He emphasized that while Taiwanese troops are prepared to defend the island, the government does not seek to escalate tensions.
The Taiwan Ministry of Defense confirmed that live-fire drills occurred Tuesday morning north of the island. Debris from the exercises entered Taiwan’s contiguous zone, located 24 nautical miles (approximately 44 kilometers) from the coast.
Large scale mobilization and trade impact
Over the last 24 hours, Taiwan reported 130 Chinese military aircraft and 22 naval and coast guard vessels around the island. Furthermore, 14 Chinese coast guard ships entered Taiwan’s contiguous zone, leading to direct standoffs with Taiwanese vessels.
The exercises have affected 11 of Taiwan’s 14 primary air routes. However, civil aviation authorities noted that the impact on international flights remains limited as carriers utilize alternative corridors toward Japan.
Psychological warfare and long-term goals
The drills feature the first deployment of the Type 075 amphibious assault ship, capable of launching attack helicopters and armored vehicles simultaneously. Chinese state media supported the maneuvers with propaganda posters titled "Justice Hammers," symbolically depicting strikes on the island.
Beijing indicated that simulating a blockade of the strategic ports of Keelung and Kaohsiung is a central objective. While the Pentagon suggests China aims to be ready for a potential conflict by 2027, analysts point out that internal anti-corruption campaigns within the Chinese military may impact actual combat readiness.
The Taiwan Strait remains a vital global artery, facilitating approximately $2.45 trillion in annual trade.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
