Taiwan’s military will be conducting a series of war drills, known as the Han Kuang exercises, in which two major airports will be utilized for the first time. The annual exercises aim to test Taiwan’s combat readiness in the event of a Chinese invasion. This year, the drills will include an anti-takeover exercise at Taoyuan International Airport and an emergency landing and takeoff drill at Taitung Fengnian Airport.
The anti-takeover drill at Taoyuan International Airport is scheduled for July 26, while the emergency landing and takeoff drill at Taitung Fengnian Airport will take place on July 25. These drills involve members of the Aviation and Special Forces Command and Army Airborne Special Forces simulating invading forces, with ground troops deployed to repel the takeover. Taoyuan International Airport is Taiwan’s busiest civilian airport, and this will be the first time such a drill is held there.
Transportation Minister Wang Kwo-tsai has stated that the drills at Taoyuan International Airport are expected to last about an hour but may impact airport operations for up to two hours. Around 61 flights and over 4,000 travelers could be affected. While the airport will remain open to passenger traffic during the drills, one of the runways may be closed on the morning of July 26.
The emergency landing and takeoff drill at Taitung Fengnian Airport will also be a first-time occurrence. Taitung Airport, which opened in 1981, will be tested for its ability to handle takeoff and landing missions during wartime.
The main Han Kuang exercises, consisting of live-fire drills and computerized war games, are scheduled to take place from July 24 to 28. The exercises have been held annually since 1984 and serve as a crucial platform to assess Taiwan’s combat readiness against potential threats.
Apart from the Han Kuang exercises, Taiwan is also preparing for the Wanan air defense exercise, which is set to take place from July 24 to 27 across the country and its outlying islands. During this exercise, air raid sirens will sound at 1:30 pm to mark the start of a 30-minute drill followed by an additional 30 minutes of drills organized by local governments to test public-private sector cooperation in disaster response and war scenarios.
The authorities involved in these exercises have not provided specific details about possible flight delays or whether passengers should adjust their plans. With the drills just weeks away, it is essential for the relevant parties to communicate any necessary information to minimize disruption and ensure the safety of travelers.
The inclusion of major airports in the Han Kuang exercises reflects Taiwan’s commitment to enhancing its combat preparedness and response capabilities. By simulating various scenarios in real-life settings, Taiwan aims to strengthen its defenses and readiness to face potential threats. These exercises play a crucial role in maintaining the country’s security and safeguarding the well-being of its citizens.
As always, safety remains a top priority, and measures will be in place to minimize any inconveniences to travelers during the drills. Passengers are advised to stay informed about possible disruptions and follow the instructions provided by the authorities.
The Han Kuang exercises, along with the upcoming Wanan air defense exercise, demonstrate Taiwan’s determination to protect its sovereignty and national security. By continuously improving its defense capabilities, Taiwan aims to deter any potential aggressors and ensure peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.
