Taiwan military kicks off annual naval drill

By Anadolu staff

ANKARA (AA) – Taiwan’s military on Monday kicked off a four-day annual naval drill, which aims to bolster the island nation’s offshore defensive capabilities, the local English daily Taipei Times reported, citing the Ministry of National Defense.

The Hai Chiang, or "Sea Strong" exercise, which is taking place in the waters surrounding Taiwan, will run through Thursday, amid rising tensions with China.

China has not yet responded to the drills as of the time this report was filed.

The drill features P-3C Orion maritime patrol aircraft and S-70C anti-submarine helicopters.

It will also test a wide range of operational capabilities, including joint interception, damage control, onboard firefighting, tactical formation maneuvers, aerial replenishment, and live-fire missions.

A salient feature of this year's exercise is the participation of Coast Guard Administration (CGA) vessels, which would be integrated into the navy’s command structure during the exercise.

The military is planning three major annual exercises across the army, navy, and air force this month.

They include the army’s “Lu Sheng No. 1” (Land Victory) exercise from Oct. 25 to 31 and the air force’s “Tien Lung” (Sky Dragon) exercise from Oct. 27 to 31.

*Writing by Aamir Latif