Overview
- China’s Eastern Theatre Command mobilised army, navy, air force and rocket force units, calling the exercise a test of joint combat readiness.
- Authorities designated five restricted sea and air zones around Taiwan, scheduling live firing from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. local time on Tuesday with advisories for unrelated vessels and aircraft to avoid the areas.
- Official messaging emphasised training for blockade-style control of key ports, multi-directional approaches and joint assaults to demonstrate integrated command.
- The PLA explicitly framed the drills as deterring “external interference,” a stronger formulation than previous rounds that primarily targeted pro‑independence forces.
- Taiwan condemned the operation, activated a response center, put forces on high alert and ran rapid response exercises in preparation for potential contingencies.