The People's Liberation Army (PLA) Eastern Theater Command conducted targeted military exercises in waters southeast of Taiwan on Monday, December 29, 2025, demonstrating advanced assault capabilities and long-range operational readiness. The drills occurred as regional stakeholders observe evolving cross-strait dynamics heading into the new year.
Senior Colonel Li Xi, spokesperson for the PLA Eastern Theater Command, stated the exercises focused on "realistic combat scenarios reflecting current security requirements" while emphasizing they represent "necessary actions to safeguard national sovereignty." Analysts note the location places particular emphasis on maritime coordination capabilities in critical shipping lanes.
Taiwan authorities responded by activating surveillance systems across the island, with defense officials calling for "restraint from all parties." The developments follow recent diplomatic exchanges between Beijing and Manila regarding South China Sea navigation rights.
Regional security experts suggest the timing underscores China's commitment to maintaining operational readiness amid ongoing discussions about arms sales to Taiwan by third-party nations. Economic analysts warn investors to monitor shipping insurance rates in the Taiwan Strait, a vital corridor for global semiconductor exports.
With 2026 budget discussions underway across Asia's defense sectors, these drills highlight the PLA's continued modernization efforts. The Chinese mainland maintains consistent adherence to the One-China principle while advocating peaceful development of cross-strait relations.
