TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) arrived in Kaohsiung Monday morning to inspect the Navy’s mine-laying drill and operations during the Han Kuang 41 military exercise.

The president stopped at Pinghai Military Base in Zuoying District, where Captain Chen Ming-feng (陳明峯) of the 192nd Fleet briefed him on the storage of naval mines, installation of fuses, battery modules, and setting devices, according to the Presidential Office.

Lai then proceeded to Dongdeng Pier to receive a briefing on mine loading procedures and boarded a vessel to oversee the mine-laying system in action. One fast minelayer and one LCU (Landing Craft, Utility) conducted naval mine loading operations, Liberty Times reported.

In addition to the mine-laying vessels, support from Army and Air Force units is required for security and operational success, per Liberty Times.

Afterward, the president was briefed by Amphibious Reconnaissance and Patrol Battalion Commander Lung Tai-sheng on coastal defense and protection operations carried out by special forces units. Lai was given an overview of the Navy's defensive mine-laying drill.

The president commended participating troops for their dedication and hard work and offered encouragement and support to the armed forces.