News|MilitaryChina fires several rockets around Taiwan during live military drillsDay two of the ‘Justice Mission 2025’ drills will include 10 hours of live-fire exercises and a simulated blockade of Taiwan’s major ports.
On Tue, Dec 30, 2025, China initiated a series of military exercises near Taiwan, involving the launch of rockets and rehearsal of a blockade around the island. These activities are part of the ongoing military drills, which include the deployment of…
On Tue, Dec 30, 2025, China initiated a series of military exercises near Taiwan, involving the launch of rockets and rehearsal of a blockade around the island. These activities are part of the ongoing military drills, which include the deployment of navy destroyers, bombers, and other forces. The exercises aim to address "separatist" and "external" forces, as stated by China's military.
The drills involve live-fire exercises scheduled between 8am and 6pm local time (00:00 to 10:00 GMT) across five maritime and airspace zones surrounding Taiwan. These exercises also include air and sea patrols, simulated precision strikes, and anti-submarine maneuvers.
Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense reported that some exercises would occur within 12 nautical miles of its coastline, which Taiwan considers its territorial waters. The coastguard noted that seven rockets were fired into designated drill zones around Taiwan. As a result, over 80 domestic flights were canceled on Tuesday, with more than 300 international flights potentially facing delays due to rerouted air traffic.
These activities are part of the ongoing military drills, which include the deployment of navy destroyers, bombers, and other forces.
The exercises, named "Justice Mission 2025," commenced on Monday, shortly after the United States announced a significant arms package for Taiwan valued at $11.1 billion. China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs described these exercises as a response to US arms sales and a deterrent against Taiwan's independence efforts.
According to analysts, the "Justice Mission 2025" exercises aim to enhance anti-access and area denial capabilities, effectively preventing Taiwan from receiving supplies from allies during a conflict. The drills also simulate a blockade of Taiwan's major ports and strategic waterways such as the Bashi Channel and Miyako Strait, crucial for Taiwan's energy imports.
Taiwan's Defense Ministry tracked 130 air sorties by Chinese aircraft, 14 naval ships, and eight official ships during the drills. Taiwanese coastguard ships and naval vessels are actively monitoring the situation.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.