Taiwan has begun its annual “Hanguang 31” military exercises.
The live-fire drill began early on Monday morning, and is set to last five days and four nights. It will take place on the main island of Taiwan, as well as on off-shore islands, and in Taiwan’s airspace and territorial waters.
As in previous years, the scenario used will be a simulated military attack on Taiwan. The military will use a number of new weapons for the first time, including Tuo River Class Corvettes, Panshi Fast Combat Support Ships, P-3C Anti-Submarine Aircraft, Taiwan Infantry Fighting Vehicles, and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV).
The drills will take place simultaneously in different areas, with soldiers participating in partially live-ammunition exercises.
The defense ministry said on Monday that this year’s military exercises will put Taiwan’s defense capabilities and battle plan to the test following a restructuring of the military.
President Ma Ying-jeou is set to inspect a live-fire drill to be held in Hsinchu County.