**Taiwan Fortifies Defense with Large-scale Civil Exercises Amid Tensions with China**

Fri Jul 18 2025 00:12:32 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)
**Taiwan Fortifies Defense with Large-scale Civil Exercises Amid Tensions with China**

Taipei holds massive civil defense drills as tensions with Beijing escalate, showcasing resilience.


Taiwan's recent civil defense exercises come in response to growing fears of a potential Chinese invasion, emphasizing preparedness and unity among citizens.

In the bustling streets of Taipei, the sounds of air raid sirens filled the air on Thursday as Taiwan executed one of its most extensive civil defense drills in history against a backdrop of escalating tensions with China. Traffic came to a halt as residents participated in mass evacuation drills and sought shelter, demonstrating preparedness for potential military scenarios.

This exercise was part of Taiwan's largest war games, the annual Han Kuang exercises, highlighting the island's commitment to strengthening its defenses amidst China’s claims over Taiwan, which Beijing regards as a breakaway province. The drills coincided with heightened military tensions following the election of President William Lai, whom China labels a "separatist."

Lai was present during the drills, where he underscored the significance of readiness and societal resilience. “By preparing for war, we can avoid war," he stated, reinforcing the idea that preparation is essential for peace. China, however, dismissed the exercises, accusing Lai's administration of promoting a pro-independence agenda and described the drills as mere bluster.

This year's Urban Resilience exercise, which runs through Friday, has combined civil defense components into a comprehensive approach. Air raid sirens activated for 30 minutes daily across several cities, prompting residents in designated areas to stay indoors to avoid fines. Additionally, all businesses had to pause operations, while road traffic was required to cease, with drivers instructed to exit their vehicles and shelter inside.

In Taipei, hundreds of emergency workers took part in the emergency drills, simulating a mass casualty event that included missile strikes. Volunteers and emergency personnel practiced extracting survivors and administering medical treatment, as well as setting up emergency supply distribution points.

Despite these high-stakes exercises, many Taiwanese citizens remain skeptical about the likelihood of an actual invasion. A recent poll by the Institute for National Defence and Security Research found that over 60% of respondents do not expect China to attack within the next five years.

Opinions vary, with some locals like finance professional Ben stating, “The chances of China invading are low… but we need these drills.” Meanwhile, others such as office worker Mr. Xue expressed doubts about their military's capabilities, feeling an imbalance exists between the military strengths of China and Taiwan.

This year’s Han Kuang exercises have seen nearly 22,000 soldiers, a 50% increase compared to previous years, engaging in land, air, and naval drills. The exercises also focused on combating misinformation from China while practicing urban defense techniques. Taiwanese forces recently tested newly acquired military equipment, like the US-supplied Himars missile system, reinforcing their readiness to respond to unconventional warfare.

As Taiwan continues these drills, it seeks to bolster confidence in its defense capabilities while navigating delicate geopolitical tensions in the region.

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