China resumes military exercises around Taiwan for second consecutive day

China Launches Second Day of Military Drills Around Taiwan

China has begun a second day of military drills around Taiwan, with the latest escalation in tensions over the self-governing island. The drills, part of “Justice Mission 2025”, have deployed navy destroyers, bombers, and other forces to five maritime and airspace zones around Taiwan.

According to Chinese state media, the live-fire exercises will take place between 8am and 6pm local time in the designated zones, including air and sea patrols, simulated precision strikes, and anti-submarine manoeuvres. The drills are also expected to include a simulated blockade of Taiwan’s major ports in the north and south.

Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defence reported that some live-fire drills will take place within 12 nautical miles from the coastline, which is considered Taiwan’s territorial waters. As a result, over 80 domestic flights were cancelled on Tuesday, with more than 300 international flights potentially facing delays due to rerouted air traffic.

The exercises are part of a series of military drills China has staged around Taiwan since US Speaker of the House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi visited the island in 2022. The “Justice Mission 2025” drills will focus on anti-access and area denial capability, simulating a blockade of Taiwan’s major ports, and taking control of strategically important waterways.

China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Lin Jian, stated that the exercises are aimed at safeguarding China’s national sovereignty and territorial integrity. The drills were also monitored by Taiwanese coastguard ships and an undisclosed number of naval vessels.

Source: Al Jazeera