TAIPEI: Taiwan conducted air raid drills in multiple cities on Monday, simulating its response to potential Chinese missile attacks. The exercises were held on the same day that Taiwan’s military initiated its annual war games.
The self-ruled island has been increasing its defence drills in response to mounting military and political pressure from China, which claims Taiwan as its territory.
Taiwan’s preparations for potential threats also extend to its civilian population, with authorities conducting drills in cities to ensure preparedness. Officials have cited lessons learned from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, where street-to-street warfare was part of the defence strategy. The drills aim to equip residents with the knowledge and skills to evacuate effectively in the event of an attack.
The air defence exercises, named “Wan An” meaning “everlasting peace,” included emergency scenarios in seven northern counties of Taiwan. Sirens blared in Taipei’s Neihu district, signaling an incoming missile attack, prompting volunteers to guide residents to underground evacuation shelters. Participants crouched down, covering their eyes and ears in the simulated attack.
Air Raid Drills to Continue Across Taiwan
In another part of Taipei’s Nangang district, firefighters practiced responding to a missile attack on a train station, demonstrating their firefighting capabilities and rescue procedures. The drills will continue until Thursday across Taiwan.
Taiwan is currently conducting its largest annual military exercises, known as “Han Kuang” (Han Glory), to simulate defending against a potential attack from China’s army. The exercises showcase the formidable capabilities of Taiwan’s air force.
However, the drills scheduled for Tuesday at the southern Taitung airport were canceled due to the approach of Typhoon Doksuri in Southeast Asia, which poses a potential threat to the island.
China’s aggressive stance towards Taiwan has escalated in recent years, with frequent incursions by warplanes into Taiwan’s air defence zone. The Chinese military has also conducted large-scale drills in waters surrounding Taiwan, simulating targeted strikes and a blockade of the island.
