The annual Han Kuang military exercises are under way in Taiwan. The five-day exercises kicked off on Monday, featuring both live-fire drills and computer-assisted war games. The goal is to test the military’s combat power and defense capabilities.
The defense ministry says that some of Taiwan’s 22 brand-new combined arms battalions will see action at this year’s exercises. The battalions were formed last September. They bring together soldiers and officers from different branches of the military, along with snipers and unmanned aerial vehicles and missile operators. The units are capable of operating independently in the battlefield.
On Wednesday, Taiwan’s navy will test a torpedo for the first time since 2007. The defense ministry says a Chien Lung-class attack submarine will test-fire an SUT heavyweight torpedo to sink a ship.
This year’s exercises are taking place amid increased Chinese military activity around Taiwan. Reserve forces will participate in live-fire drills for the first time. Also, special forces from the military, police and coast guard will make their first appearance, simulating a rescue of government leaders being held hostage.