New taipei: Taiwan’s Armed Forces on Saturday executed a live explosive ordnance drill on the Tamsui River, simulating a defense against a potential Chinese incursion. This exercise is part of the annual Han Kuang exercises, focusing on hands-on training to bolster defense strategies in the Greater Taipei area.

According to Focus Taiwan, the military emphasized the strategic importance of the Tamsui River in preventing Chinese hovercraft and vessels from advancing upstream, which could threaten key areas like Wanhua and Dazhi. The Han Kuang exercises have increasingly focused on blockading the river to protect the capital.

This year’s drill marked a significant step forward, featuring the first publicly demonstrated detonation of C4 explosives. The Army’s 53rd Engineer Group deployed various obstacles such as fixed fishing nets and oil barrels attached to pontoons. The setup spanned a section of the river approximately 500 meters wide and 450 meters long. The Army’s Guandu Area Command provided covering fir
e, while tactical short-range drones conducted reconnaissance over the river.

Chieh Chung, a researcher at the Association of Strategic Foresight, highlighted the importance of stopping the Chinese military from advancing along the Tamsui River. The live detonation training is essential for determining the optimal density and quantity of explosives needed in a potential conflict.

The obstacles showcased during the drill aim to defend against Chinese speedboats and unmanned underwater vehicles. Additionally, the Army’s Matsu Defense Command reported a separate drill on Saturday, simulating the detection of unidentified aerial vehicles over Nangan Island. Soldiers quickly mobilized to their positions, underscoring the military’s commitment to national security and regional stability.