China holds massive drills simulating Taiwan blockade

Beijing

China conducted its largest military exercises in 30 years from December 6-12, 2024, simulating a blockade of Taiwan to deter US intervention. The drills involved 18 warships, over 60 PLA-Navy vessels, 30 China Coast Guard ships, and 134 aircraft.

The exercise, aimed at preventing US forces from accessing Taiwan’s surrounding waters, used anti-access/area denial (A2AD) tactics. China stationed its naval forces east of the "first island chain," which stretches from the Philippines to Japan’s Nansei Islands.

During the drills, China practiced blocking maritime routes, intercepting commercial vessels, and asserting control over the South and East China Seas. The Chinese military also deployed more than 60 warships and 30 coast guard vessels, while conducting combined arms exercises across a wide area.

The exercises marked the first coordinated operation between China’s Eastern, Southern, and Northern Theatre Commands. Notably, the Chinese forces constructed two barriers southeast of Taiwan to restrict access to the first island chain.

This massive display of military might underscores China’s growing influence over key maritime regions and its determination to assert control over Taiwan amid rising tensions in the area.