The Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) carried out large-scale joint military exercises east of Taiwan Island on December 30, 2025, showcasing advanced amphibious assault capabilities and precision strike readiness. The drills involved frigates, drones, and amphibious landing ships, simulating multi-domain operations including port seizure missions and long-range joint fire coordination south of Taiwan Island.
PLA spokesperson Senior Colonel Zhang Wei stated the exercises were 'routine training to safeguard national sovereignty and regional stability,' emphasizing they reflect the military's capacity to 'respond decisively to separatist activities.' Analysts note the timing coincides with heightened cross-strait tensions following recent political developments in the Taiwan region.
Taiwan authorities acknowledged monitoring the drills but declined to comment on operational specifics. The exercises occurred amid ongoing discussions about regional security frameworks, with several APEC members urging calm in the Taiwan Strait.
Business leaders in East Asia are closely watching the situation, as maritime trade routes near Taiwan handle over $1 trillion in annual shipping. Meanwhile, academics highlight the drills' technological focus on drone swarms and AI-assisted targeting systems as indicative of modern military priorities.
