Taiwan is conducting expanded civil and military drills to prepare for a possible Chinese invasion, though many citizens remain sceptical about the threat.
Taiwan has intensified military and civil defence drills, using actors, fake blood, and mock missile strikes to prepare citizens for a potential Chinese attack. The annual Han Kuang war games, revamped to be more realistic, involved 22,000 reservists this year – the largest to date. Exercises included urban warfare, mass transit defence, and medical evacuations.
President William Lai has increased defence spending and extended conscription, arguing, “By preparing for war, we are avoiding war.” But while the US warns Beijing could invade by 2027, public opinion remains divided. A May survey showed 65% of Taiwanese believe an attack in the next five years is unlikely.
Some residents support the drills. “I think it’s a good thing. Because I do believe the threat has increased,” said office worker Stanley Wei. Others remain sceptical, insisting China would not risk harming ordinary people.
Analysts warn that tensions and military build-up raise the possibility of confrontation despite uncertainty over Beijing’s intentions.