TAIPEI (Taiwan News) – The military is ending the Han Kuang 40 war games one day early on Thursday (July 25) so soldiers can help with disaster relief in the wake of Typhoon Gaemi.

The annual exercises had been scheduled for July 22-26, with unscripted drills and reactions taking precedence. The approach of the typhoon already forced the cancellation of part of the exercises earlier in the week.

The Ministry of National Defense (MND) said it ordered the military to halt Han Kuang 40 at noon Thursday, per CNA. All units needed to transit immediately to the new task of helping local governments provide disaster relief.

The military can be requested to help with tasks including the evacuation of residents threatened by floods and landslides, and the repair of basic infrastructure. Earlier reports said the MND was preparing both manpower and machinery to intervene if necessary.