The Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) launched the Joint Sword-2024B military exercises around the Taiwan region early Monday. This large-scale operation involved the coordinated efforts of the army, navy, air force, and rocket force, with vessels and aircraft approaching the island from multiple directions.
Li Xi, spokesperson for the theater command, emphasized the comprehensive nature of the drills, highlighting the PLA's preparedness and strategic capabilities. On the same day, the China Coast Guard (CCG) executed law-enforcement patrols in the surrounding waters, reinforcing control in alignment with the one-China principle.
These military maneuvers are a direct response to Taiwan regional leader Lai Ching-te's speech on October 10. Fu Zhengnan, a military expert from the PLA Academy of Military Science, described the drills as a firm statement against any moves toward Taiwan independence, aiming to deter both overt and subtle efforts to seek separation.
\"The Joint Sword-2024B exercises demonstrate that the PLA will not tolerate radical or gradual approaches to Taiwan independence,\" Fu explained. He noted the operation's all-weather capabilities, which contribute to an intense and realistic combat environment. The seamless transition from troop mobilization to pressure tactics underscores the PLA's readiness to escalate military actions swiftly if provoked.
Fu further stated that the drills serve as a clear warning to the Lai administration: pursuing Taiwan independence is a dead end. Should any provocateurs attempt to advance independence, the PLA is prepared to intensify its military operations in response.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
