TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) traveled to Taoyuan on Sunday, the fifth day and halfway point of the annual Han Kuang military exercise.
Wearing a raincoat amid a heavy downpour and strong winds from Typhoon Dolphin's outer circulation, Lai inspected field exercises and received briefings on the deployment of firepower. He inspected key areas where the military would seek to destroy an opposing force, including beachheads and corridors designed to channel an adversary into areas optimized for defensive fire, per LTN.
Upon arrival, Lai received a battlefield briefing from an observation platform. Military personnel used a tablet computer to explain tactical deployments and the status of the exercise, giving the president an overview of firepower deployment in the Taoyuan Central Combat Zone.
Lai then visited an Avenger air defense system operated by the Army's 21st Artillery Command. Soldiers wearing digital camouflage uniforms and protective gear demonstrated the operation of the air defense missile system and tracking radar, showcasing their combat readiness and ability to respond to threats. Lai also provided additional funding for meals to recognize the soldiers' efforts during the exercise.
Han Kuang 42 will conclude Friday. During the exercise, mobile network speeds will also be reduced for the first time in central and northern Taiwan as part of urban resilience drills, according to a Cabinet press release. The exercises aim to strengthen coordination among the central government, local governments, armed forces, and civil defense teams to improve Taiwan's overall resilience.
Following the exercise, the armed forces will review the results to improve joint operational capabilities, strengthen resilience and combat readiness, deter potential enemy invasion, and safeguard national security. The military said the exercise is also intended to demonstrate Taiwan's resolve to maintain regional peace and stability through concrete action.
