Taiwan Launches 8-Day Han Kuang Drills With 20,000 Reservists as US-Style Training Deepens
Updated
Updated · The Associated Press · Aug 7
Taiwan Launches 8-Day Han Kuang Drills With 20,000 Reservists as US-Style Training Deepens
3 articles · Updated · The Associated Press · Aug 7
Summary
Wednesday’s Han Kuang exercises began across Taiwan and run through Aug. 14, testing 24-hour defense operations and responses to Chinese gray-zone pressure rather than staging weapons displays.
A key change is U.S.-inspired “backbriefing,” which has subordinates explain mission execution plans to commanders, a shift experts say builds frontline autonomy, coordination and real combat readiness.
Around 20,000 reservists are expected to join—one of the largest call-ups yet—while urban resilience drills in Taipei, Taichung and Kaohsiung will even slow mobile internet for about 30 minutes to simulate disruption.
The emphasis on reserves and civil defense reflects President Lai Ching-te’s push to strengthen deterrence despite parliament cutting his proposed $40 billion defense package to $24.8 billion.
The drills also highlight a paradox in U.S. support: military ties appear to be deepening even as a $14 billion U.S. arms package still awaits President Donald Trump’s approval.