Hsinchu County:Taiwan's Army has implemented a new "unscripted" combat training format this year, replacing traditional training programs to bolster combat readiness against potential threats from China's military.

According to Focus Taiwan, during a recent media tour at the Army's Northern Joint Test and Training Command in Hsinchu County, instructors highlighted that Army combat units are now required to undergo base training at least twice annually. This nine-week program is an intensive live-fire exercise conducted at designated training bases, consisting of preliminary training, tactical assessments, combat capability evaluations, and after-action reviews.

The initiative, known as Combat Training Center 2.0, marks a shift from the previous practice of following predetermined scenarios. It emphasizes joint operations among different units and simulates real battlefield conditions where troops must adapt to unpredictable enemy movements. This framework aims to create a more authentic combat environment rather than a performative one.

Two Army units, the 109th Infantry Brigade and the 542nd Combined Arms Brigade, participated in a 10-day, nine-night training exercise under this new format. The training incorporates advanced tools like a "laser engagement system" and the Team Awareness Kit (TAK), which help track positions and facilitate real-time intelligence sharing, enhancing capabilities in joint operations.

The updated training program allows commanders to set objectives and evaluation standards tailored to their units, offering greater flexibility compared to past standardized scoring systems. Commanders can also be queried on aspects unique to their units, further personalizing the evaluation process.

These developments are part of Taiwan's broader strategy to adopt an unscripted, real-world combat format for its annual Han Kuang military exercises starting in 2024.