TAIPEI — Taiwan stepped up military readiness on Friday as Chinese military activity around the island continued during a period of heightened tensions, while Taipei conducted large-scale exercises designed to prepare for a potential blockade or attack.
Taiwan's annual Han Kuang exercises, which began in late July and run through Aug. 14, have included scenarios involving maritime blockades, attacks on critical infrastructure and disruptions to communications. On Thursday, Taiwan also carried out its first joint navy and coast guard anti-blockade drill, simulating the escort of a commercial vessel and the clearing of sea mines.
Taiwan's Defense Ministry has routinely reported Chinese military aircraft and naval vessels operating around the island. On Thursday, the ministry reported that 18 Chinese military aircraft and 11 naval ships were operating near Taiwan, according to the Associated Press. The activity came as Taiwan was conducting its broader defense exercises.
Taiwan has responded to such activity by deploying aircraft, naval vessels and coastal missile systems to monitor Chinese forces. The ministry has previously said Chinese aircraft have crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan's air defense identification zone, or ADIZ, prompting Taiwanese forces to monitor and respond.
The exercises have also involved civilian authorities. Taiwan temporarily slowed mobile internet services in Taipei and six other areas on Thursday to simulate wartime communications disruption, while authorities practiced evacuation procedures and preparations for hospitals and other critical services. President Lai Ching-te inspected elements of the emergency preparations.
Tensions have also risen over planned Chinese naval activity east of Taiwan. China's Defense Ministry said a Chinese naval vessel would conduct a navigation exercise with an Indonesian Navy frigate in waters east of Taiwan in mid-August. Taiwan criticized the plan, saying it risked creating a false impression that China exercised jurisdiction over those waters.
Indonesia has described its participation as limited and non-combat in nature, saying its frigate was conducting a routine maritime engagement while returning from an overseas exercise.
Beijing claims Taiwan as part of China and has not ruled out the use of force to assert control over the island. Taipei rejects Beijing's sovereignty claims and maintains its own government and armed forces.
Taiwan's Han Kuang exercises are scheduled to conclude on Friday, with authorities continuing to monitor Chinese military activity around the island.
