Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Taipei Conducts Air Raid Drills Amid Rising China Tensions

7/18/2025

35 6

Left

Lai Ching-te's Defense

Taipei's air raid drills on Thursday sent sirens wailing through the city, urging citizens to seek shelter as tensions with China escalate. Under President Lai Ching-te's leadership, Taiwan is ramping up civilian defense efforts, engaging local communities, and bolstering military readiness to confront the looming threat of missile attacks.

Center

Taiwan Mobilizes Defense

Taiwan's largest military drill, the Han Kuang exercise, saw over 22,000 reservists mobilized to simulate defense against a looming Chinese threat. Armed with U.S. HIMARS rocket launchers, they practiced urban defense and cyberattack strategies. As Taiwan asserts its sovereignty, China issues stern warnings against U.S. involvement, heightening tensions in the region.

1 of 2

Lai Ching-te's Defense

Taipei's air raid drills on Thursday sent sirens wailing through the city, urging citizens to seek shelter as tensions with China escalate. Under President Lai Ching-te's leadership, Taiwan is ramping up civilian defense efforts, engaging local communities, and bolstering military readiness to confront the looming threat of missile attacks.

1 / 2