Taiwan’s Han Kuang Military Drills: Reservists Train to Defend Key Locations
Thousands of reservists across Taiwan have reported for duty as the nation commenced the live-fire phase of its largest annual military exercises, Han Kuang. The drills, coordinated by the Ministry of National Defence’s Joint Operations Command Centre, began at 6 am on Monday, marking the 40th edition of the event.
Key Locations and Activities
Reservists were deployed to critical locations nationwide. In Taoyuan, personnel gathered at Hou Tsou Elementary School for a rigorous refresher training program aimed at defending Taoyuan International Airport, a vital infrastructure identified for anti-landing drills in potential cross-strait conflicts. Hou Tsou Elementary School is strategically located near Taoyuan Airport and Zhuwei Beach, areas deemed vulnerable to PLA landing operations.
In New Taipei’s Bali District, reservists focused on mobilizing civilian vehicles for wartime logistics from the Port of Taipei. The 109th Brigade erected defensive positions around the port, crucial for its role as Taipei’s gateway and home to essential government institutions.
Defensive Measures
Military engineers from the Army’s 53rd Engineering Group undertook operations on the Tamsui River, implementing defensive measures including oil-filled tanks and floating barriers to obstruct potential enemy advances. These obstacles are critical for impeding enemy vessels and safeguarding Taipei’s strategic perimeters.
Importance of Han Kuang Exercises
The Han Kuang exercises are pivotal for Taiwan’s defense strategy, encompassing both live-fire drills and computer simulations designed to enhance combat readiness amidst regional tensions. Earlier tabletop exercises in April laid the groundwork for the current live-fire phase, focusing on integrated defense strategies across Taiwan’s key strategic locations.
Doubts Revealed
Taiwan -: Taiwan is an island nation located in East Asia, near China. It has its own government and is known for its technology industry.
Han Kuang Military Drills -: These are large-scale military exercises conducted annually by Taiwan to prepare its armed forces for defense. ‘Han Kuang’ means ‘Han Glory’ in Chinese.
Reservists -: Reservists are people who have completed their mandatory military service and can be called back to serve in the military during emergencies or for training.
Live-fire phase -: This is a part of military training where real ammunition is used to simulate actual combat conditions, making the training more realistic.
Ministry of National Defence -: This is the government department in Taiwan responsible for managing the country’s military forces and defense policies.
Taoyuan International Airport -: This is the main international airport in Taiwan, located near the capital city, Taipei. It is a critical location for both travel and defense.
Port of Taipei -: This is a major port in Taiwan used for shipping and trade. It is also important for national defense.
Military engineers -: These are soldiers who specialize in building and maintaining military structures, such as bridges, roads, and defensive barriers.
Tamsui River -: This is a river in northern Taiwan that flows through the capital city, Taipei. It is strategically important for defense.
Combat readiness -: This means being fully prepared to engage in military action at any time. It involves training, equipment, and planning.
Computer simulations -: These are virtual exercises using computer software to mimic real-life scenarios. They help in planning and training without the risks of live drills.
