Taiwanese wargames simulating a full-scale Chinese invasion of the island conclude today
Taiwan’s annual Han Kuang military exercises’ computer-assisted wargames end today.
The wargames simulate a full-scale Chinese invasion of Taiwan proper and the surrounding islands, with the goal of maintaining resistance for a week. This week’s simulations will assess Taiwan’s actual combat capabilities against superior Chinese forces, providing an internal assessment of their survivability. Then, live-fire drills will be conducted from July 12 to 16, signaling Taipei’s military prowess and readiness to combat Beijing.
This year’s exercises come as cross-strait relations reach historic lows. In recent months, Washington has stepped up its support for Taipei, sending multiple delegates to the island. China has responded with an increased military presence in the Taiwan Strait and consistent intrusion into Taiwanese airspace.
Expect Taiwan to present a strong military posture in the face of increased Chinese aggression as exercises continue. The simulations will likely report that Taiwan can resist Chinese forces on its main island for several weeks. The island is well prepared with good defensive geography, fortifications and decades of planning. A new emphasis on reserve training and mobilization means Taipei can field a large, modern force armed with US military tech. Victory against China without external assistance, however, remains remote.
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