Taiwan’s military has commenced its largest annual exercise amid heightened tensions with China, incorporating new measures to address cyber threats alongside traditional defense preparations. The Han Kuang exercise, which began this week, aims to simulate responses not only to potential physical incursions from the Chinese mainland but also to the increasingly sophisticated “grey zone” tactics Beijing has employed, including blockades and cyberwarfare operations.

This year’s drills have drawn attention for their inclusion of a partial internet shutdown within Taiwan, a move intended to test the military’s resilience and communications security under conditions of restricted connectivity. Officials said the exercise reflects the evolving nature of threats facing the island and the necessity of preparing for attacks that go beyond conventional warfare.

The military maneuvers also incorporate the use of the latest American-made Abrams tanks, which were recently delivered to Taiwan as part of a growing defense relationship with the United States. Washington is reportedly considering a significant arms package to Taiwan, a decision that has drawn sharp criticism from Beijing, which views such support as interference in its internal affairs.

While Taiwan’s government emphasizes the defensive and readiness aspects of the drills, China maintains that such activities and external military support exacerbate regional tensions and undermine efforts toward peaceful relations across the Taiwan Strait. The exercises and proposed arms sales occur against the backdrop of sustained diplomatic friction, with Beijing reiterating calls for the island’s reunification with the mainland under its “One China” principle.

The Han Kuang exercise is expected to continue over several days, involving multiple branches of Taiwan’s armed forces. It serves as both a demonstration of the island’s commitment to self-defense and a signal to Beijing regarding Taiwan’s preparedness in the face of mounting pressure.