TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) visited military training facilities in Kaohsiung on Friday with stops at the Army Engineer Training Center and the Naval Antisubmarine Aviation Command.

Lai toured the grounds, observed mission briefings, and met with officers to discuss the progress of combat training operations, the Military News Agency reported. The president expressed his respect and gratitude for the soldiers and the indispensable role they play in safeguarding Taiwan. 

The Army’s engineering corps and the Navy’s specialized defense operations are critical to the country’s overall defensive strategy, Lai said. He called on officers to continue advancing the professionalism of Taiwan’s armed forces and to ensure the nation's safety.

At the Army Engineer Training Center, Lai observed drills involving the rapid construction of barricades on roadways and coastal terrain. The “mobile interdiction” operations are designed to impede the advance of enemy forces. The exercises reportedly incorporated new equipment acquired in 2024 that was tailored to obstruct vehicles and infantry, per CNA. 

At the Naval Antisubmarine Aviation Command, Lai was briefed on the Navy’s reconnaissance capabilities and operational strategies for dealing with China’s gray zone tactics. In his address, Lai commended the Navy for its thorough work in mapping and continually monitoring the underwater terrain to ensure potential threats will always be detected. 

As the soldiers prepare for the annual Han Kuang military exercises in July and the upcoming Dragon Boat Festival, Lai thanked the Army and Navy for their dedication and hard work. In his address, he also exhorted them to remain loyal and to work together diligently to defend Taiwan.