Is China preparing to blockade Taiwan? Inside the Massive ‘Justice Mission 2025’ war drills raising Global alarm
China has called its drills around Taiwan a “strong punishment” for “separatist acts”. Image Credit: Reuters
China has launched large-scale live-fire military drills around Taiwan, simulating a blockade of major ports and maritime routes, in a sharp escalation of tensions in the Taiwan Strait. The exercises, dubbed “Justice Mission 2025,” involve China’s army, navy, air force, rocket forces, and coast guard, according to official statements from Beijing.
The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) described the drills as a “stern warning” against what it calls “Taiwan independence separatist forces” and external interference, a thinly veiled reference to the United States and its regional allies.
Taiwan Condemns ‘Military Intimidation’ as Forces Go on High Alert
Taiwan’s government swiftly condemned the drills, accusing Beijing of undermining regional stability and escalating military pressure. The island’s defense ministry said it had deployed appropriate response forces and initiated counter combat-readiness exercises.
“Defending democracy and freedom is no provocation,” Taiwan’s defense ministry said, stressing that Beijing’s actions threaten the status quo in the Taiwan Strait.
Taiwan’s coast guard also warned that the scope of the drills posed a serious threat to navigation safety and fishermen operating in surrounding waters.
What Is ‘Justice Mission 2025’?
According to China’s Eastern Theater Command, Justice Mission 2025 is designed to test the PLA’s ability to conduct:
- Systemic blockade and control of key ports
- Precision strikes on maritime and submarine targets
- Joint sea-air coordination
- Deterrence against foreign military intervention
The PLA announced live-fire exercises across five airspace and maritime zones encircling Taiwan, some of them closer to the island than previous drills. Analysts say this marks one of the most explicit rehearsals of denying foreign access to the region.
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Warships, Aircraft, Missiles: Scale of he Drills Raises Alarm
Taiwanese military officials reported detecting:
- 14 PLA warships
- 14 Chinese coast guard vessels
- 89 Chinese military aircraft
- An amphibious assault strike group southeast of Taiwan
No Chinese forces entered Taiwan’s territorial airspace or waters, but experts say the drills amount to a de facto blockade rehearsal, particularly affecting routes to Taiwan’s outlying islands such as Kinmen and Matsu.
Why Now? US Arms Deal and Regional Tensions
The drills come amid mounting friction over:
- A newly approved $11.1 billion US arms deal with Taiwan
- Statements from Japan’s prime minister suggesting Tokyo could intervene if Taiwan were attacked
- Recent speeches by Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te, pledging to boost defenses and reach high combat readiness by 2027
Beijing has repeatedly condemned these developments, accusing Washington and Taipei of “collusive actions” and warning that Taiwan risks becoming a “powder keg.”
A Familiar Pattern of Pressure on Taiwan
Justice Mission 2025 is the sixth major PLA exercise targeting Taiwan since 2022, when China launched unprecedented drills following a visit by then-US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.
Analysts say Beijing is increasingly using “salami-slicing” tactics, incremental actions designed to pressure Taiwan while stopping short of open conflict.
“This drill is explicitly about denying foreign intervention,” said security analysts in Taipei, noting the PLA’s unusually open messaging and visible radar presence.
What Happens Next?
The duration of the drills remains unclear, but China has announced continued combat readiness patrols and temporary closures of air and sea zones around Taiwan. Analysts say Beijing will closely watch the US response before deciding its next move.
FAQ
Is China preparing to invade Taiwan?
There is no official declaration of invasion. However, analysts say the drills simulate key elements of a potential blockade or military campaign, increasing concern.
What is Justice Mission 2025?
Justice Mission 2025 is a PLA military exercise involving live-fire drills, blockade simulations, and joint operations around Taiwan.
Why did China launch these drills now?
The drills follow a major US-Taiwan arms deal, regional diplomatic tensions, and statements by Taiwan’s leadership emphasizing defense readiness.
Has China blocked Taiwan’s ports?
No actual blockade has occurred, but experts say the drills closely resemble a rehearsal for a future blockade.
How has Taiwan responded?
Taiwan condemned the drills, placed its forces on high alert, and conducted counter exercises to safeguard its air and maritime security.
Will the United States intervene if China attacks Taiwan?
The US maintains “strategic ambiguity” but is legally obligated to help Taiwan defend itself and continues to supply defensive weapons.
Are flights and shipping affected?
Yes. Taiwan authorities estimate over 100,000 travelers could be impacted, with hundreds of international and domestic flights disrupted.
How serious is the current Taiwan Strait crisis?
Analysts describe the situation as one of the most intense military escalations around Taiwan in recent years.
