TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Army conducted a live-fire drill as part of its “Joint Vanguard Exercise” at the joint training base in Hengchun, Pingtung County, on Wednesday.

Personnel from the Army’s 234th Brigade and the Aviation and Special Forces Command focused on firepower coordination and seizing enemy positions, Liberty Times reported. Units deployed 105mm tank guns, 120mm mortars, and other weapons.

Attack helicopters from the Aviation and Special Forces Command flew at low altitude to fire at simulated enemy positions. Soldiers were tested on their physical endurance and ability to perform tactical maneuvers under terrain constraints.

The military emphasized that the Joint Vanguard Exercise adheres to the principle of “training as you fight,” using intensive drills to sharpen combat skills in environments that closely resemble real battlefields. The military added that it remains ready at all times to defend the nation.

The Army Aviation and Special Forces Command recently conducted a three-day helicopter live-fire exercise in Pingtung. 

The 602nd Brigade deployed AH-1W SuperCobra helicopters, OH-58D Kiowa helicopters, and UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters at the Longqin base in Hengchun. The exercise tested the combat readiness of air and ground personnel.