China Conducts Massive Military Drills Near Taiwan Without Announcement

Taiwan reports largest Chinese naval mobilization in decades as Beijing adopts a new tactic of silent military exercises.

China carried out large-scale military drills near Taiwan, involving around 90 warships and coast guard vessels, without prior announcement or media coverage.
Taiwanese officials described the exercises as simulating blockades and potential attacks, prompting Taiwan to activate an emergency response center earlier this week.
China's defense ministry neither confirmed nor denied the drills, quoting Sun Tzu's 'Art of War' to emphasize tactical unpredictability and its commitment to opposing Taiwan independence.
Analysts view the silent drills as an effort by China to normalize its military presence around Taiwan and signal its ability to control critical maritime areas, including the First Island Chain.
Taiwan's authorities reported the drills concluded on Thursday, with Chinese ships returning to port, but concerns remain over the potential for such exercises to escalate into actual conflict.