President Lai Promises Enhanced Military Readiness After Exercises

President William Lai announced a comprehensive enhancement of Taiwan’s military capabilities during a visit to the navy’s Tsoying destroyer. This statement followed the conclusion of the annual Hai Chiang (“Sea Strong”) live-fire exercise, which aimed to assess the armed forces’ readiness for potential conflicts, particularly with China.

Military Exercises and Strategic Goals

Accompanied by key defense officials, including Wellington Koo, the Minister of National Defense, and Admiral Tang Hua, Commander of the Navy, Lai observed various operations during the five-day drill. These exercises tested critical skills such as joint interception, damage control, and aerial replenishment. The drills also included live-fire missions intended to simulate real combat scenarios.

The Ministry of National Defense noted that warships from the Surface Combatant Group 62.1 effectively deployed advanced military equipment, including Sikorsky S-70C anti-submarine helicopters and Albatross surveillance drones. A video released by the Presidential Office showcased these assets in action, highlighting the navy’s operational capabilities.

In his address to naval personnel, Lai emphasized the significance of the Hai Chiang exercise in strengthening Taiwan’s defense against a potential Chinese blockade. He commended the service members for their professionalism and skill, reinforcing the importance of their role in maintaining maritime security.

Adapting to Modern Threats

Lai outlined the need for Taiwan’s armed forces to adopt innovative defense technologies and asymmetric capabilities to address the increasing threats posed by China, which has been employing “gray zone” tactics. He indicated a shift towards prioritizing the deployment of precision-guided weapons, uncrewed systems, and artificial intelligence to enhance defensive resilience.

Furthermore, Lai stressed the importance of a holistic approach to military transformation, calling for new training methodologies and the integration of emerging technologies. He asserted that such reforms require commitment from all levels of military command and should involve a whole-of-society effort.

In a separate development, Minister Koo is scheduled to brief lawmakers on the progress of Taiwan’s first domestically built defense submarine, the Hai Kun, during sessions at the Legislative Yuan. Recent reports confirmed that the submarine has experienced technical difficulties affecting its propulsion system, which could delay its delivery to the navy, initially planned for next month.

The discussions around the Hai Kun’s status highlight the ongoing challenges in modernizing Taiwan’s defense capabilities amid increasing regional tensions. As Taiwan continues to navigate these complex dynamics, Lai’s commitment to enhancing military readiness remains a key focus for the nation’s security strategy.