Taiwan Strengthens Wartime Readiness with President Joining Military Drill

TAIPEI, Aug 6: Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te took part in a wartime evacuation exercise during the island's annual Han Kuang military drills, traveling in an armored personnel carrier to a command center as part of preparations for maintaining government operations in the event of a conflict.

The presidential office said Lai, accompanied by senior officials, participated in late-night exercises that simulated commanding defensive operations and ensuring the continuity of government during emergency situations. Images released by the office showed the president wearing body armor and a helmet as he boarded the armored vehicle.

The 10-day Han Kuang exercises, which began on Wednesday, are aimed at strengthening Taiwan's defense readiness against a potential military attack by China. Officials said the drills test command structures, inter-agency coordination, emergency response mechanisms, and the government's ability to function under wartime conditions. It marks the first time Lai, who assumed office in 2024, has taken part in the long-standing "Wan Chun" evacuation plan as president.

The exercises come amid continued tensions with Beijing, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory and has vowed to bring the island under its control, by force if necessary. Taiwan's Defense Ministry said it detected 14 Chinese military aircraft and nine warships operating around the island on Wednesday, while military units across Taiwan continued drills involving air defense systems, coastal defense, and civilian preparedness.