China’s military has launched extensive joint exercises around Taiwan involving army, navy, air force, drones, and rocket units. The Justice Mission 2025 drills mark the sixth major round of military exercises near the self-governed island since 2022, and include live-fire operations, sea and airspace restrictions across multiple designated zones around Taiwan’s waters. Beijing states the goal is to test joint manoeuvre, blockade capabilities and combat readiness under integrated operations. 

The timing follows the United States approving a record $11.1 billion arms sale to Taiwan, which China has condemned as provocative interference. Japan’s recent comments suggesting possible military support for Taiwan if it is attacked have also increased Beijing’s rhetoric, adding to the sense that the drills serve both tactical and political signalling purposes. 

Taipei’s government has strongly criticised the drills as destabilising and provocative, asserting its commitment to defend democratic freedoms. Taiwan’s defence ministry put its forces on high alert and launched rapid response readiness exercises to counter potential threats, emphasising that military pressure will not change its democratic stance. 

Analysts observe that such exercises blur the lines between routine training and coercive pressure. They add uncertainty to cross-strait relations and could influence international reactions, particularly from the U.S. and regional allies who are watching for any shift in China’s strategy or escalation in force posture.