China's military has announced large-scale exercises around Taiwan codenamed 'Justice Mission 2025,' set for Tuesday. The drills will emphasize port blockades and deterrence against external forces, following Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's comments on potential intervention and recent U.S. arms sales to the island.
China's Eastern Theatre Command announced on December 29 large-scale military exercises around Taiwan, codenamed 'Justice Mission 2025,' involving the People's Liberation Army's army, navy, air force, and rocket force units. Senior Colonel Shi Yi stated that the drills, starting Tuesday with live-fire components, will focus on maritime and aerial combat readiness patrols, achieving integrated control, sealing off key ports and areas, and conducting multi-dimensional deterrence beyond the island chain.
A graphic outlined five zones encircling Taiwan under sea and airspace restrictions for 10 hours from 8:30 a.m. (0030 GMT). Shi Yi described the exercises as 'a serious warning to “Taiwan independence” separatist forces and external interference forces.' The military also released a poster titled 'Shields of Justice: Smashing Illusions,' depicting golden shields with the PLA insignia, the Great Wall, aircraft, and ships.
This is the sixth major round of war games since U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's 2022 visit to Taiwan, coming shortly after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggested Tokyo might respond militarily to a Chinese attack on the island. It follows 11 days after the U.S. approved an $11.1 billion arms package to Taiwan—the largest ever—prompting Chinese protests and threats of countermeasures.
Taiwan's defense ministry did not immediately comment. While the PLA practiced port blockades in last year's exercises, this marks the first public emphasis on deterring outside military intervention. The drills underscore rising tensions in China-Japan relations and could impact regional security dynamics.