China has escalated its military presence around Taiwan with large-scale exercises dubbed “Justice Mission 2025,” launching multiple missiles and simulating a full blockade of the self-governed island during the second day of operations. The drills involve live-fire exercises, naval and aerial patrols, precision strike simulations, and anti-submarine maneuvers across five designated maritime and air zones surrounding Taiwan.
According to Taiwan’s Ministry of Defense, several artillery exercises occurred within Taiwan’s territorial waters, within 12 nautical miles (approximately 22 kilometers) of its coastline. The Taiwanese Coast Guard confirmed that seven missiles were fired within the first two exercise zones established by China.
The exercises have significantly disrupted regional aviation, resulting in the cancellation of over 80 domestic flights—primarily serving Taiwan’s outlying islands—and potential delays for more than 300 international flights due to redirected air traffic routes, as reported by Taiwan’s Civil Aviation Authority.
These maneuvers come in direct response to the United States’ announcement of its largest-ever arms deal with Taiwan, valued at $11.1 billion. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian characterized the exercises as “punitive and deterrent actions against separatist forces seeking Taiwan independence through military buildup,” emphasizing the necessity of protecting China’s national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
This marks the sixth instance of major Chinese military exercises around Taiwan since former U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s 2022 visit. Analysts note that a primary objective is enhancing China’s “anti-access/area denial” capabilities, aimed at preventing Taiwan from receiving external support from allies like Japan and the U.S. during potential conflicts.
The drills include simulated blockades of Taiwan’s key northern (Keelung) and southern (Kaohsiung) ports, along with control exercises over critical waterways such as the Bashi Channel and Miyako Strait, through which Taiwan imports substantial energy resources.
China’s Eastern Theater Command released a poster titled ‘Hammer of Justice: Seal the Ports, Cut the Lines,’ depicting symbolic metal hammers striking Taiwan’s major ports. Taiwanese authorities reported monitoring 130 Chinese aircraft operations, 14 naval vessels, and eight official ships within a 24-hour period during the exercises.
Observers warn that the escalating tensions increase the risk of open conflict between China and Taiwan.