Taiwan’s military engineers showcased their strategic importance during the ongoing “Immediate Combat Response” drills, which are becoming increasingly crucial as concerns about a potential Chinese invasion grow. On the third day of these five-day military exercises, troops were mobilized in Taichung and Kaohsiung, where they demonstrated their capabilities in fortifying territorial defenses against potential aggressors.
During the exercises, army engineer units deployed various counter-mobility obstacles designed to impede enemy advancements. These included anti-tank hedgehogs, breakwater concrete blocks, concertina wire, and booby traps strategically placed along shores and access routes. The purpose of these defensive measures is to slow down or deter any aggression from Chinese forces, which have long regarded Taiwan as a breakaway province.
In a complementary component of the exercise, Taiwanese soldiers practiced deploying floating obstacles in the Danshui River, aimed specifically at hindering the movement of Chinese hovercraft and warships trying to navigate towards Taipei. This maneuver is a critical part of the broader military strategy aimed at securing vital waterways.
Additionally, while these activities unfolded, artillery forces stationed on Kinmen, an offshore island, conducted live-fire exercises using 240mm M1 howitzers as a simulation of the defense against potential invasions. This live-fire demonstration reinforces Taiwan’s commitment to being prepared on multiple fronts, ensuring that its military readiness remains robust against unexpected threats.
The “Immediate Combat Response” drills, initiated to bolster combat readiness amidst increasing pressure from Beijing, reflect Taiwan’s proactive measures to address military challenges. Reports have indicated that the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) may potentially pivot from regular drills to offensive operations, raising the stakes for Taiwan’s military to stay vigilant. In light of this, Defense Minister Wellington Koo has directed military officials to intensify monitoring of PLA activities, ensuring that any shift from preparation to actual conflict is swiftly detected.
Prior to focusing on the deployment of counter-mobility obstacles, the Taiwanese military emphasized training in anti-landing techniques—crucial for ensuring that Chinese forces cannot breach Taiwan’s defenses and advance on the capital. As the situation evolves, these drills highlight Taiwan’s commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty and readiness against an increasingly aggressive posture from mainland China.
