Taiwan coast guard performed a combined military exercise on Sunday in Kaohsiung to improve its response to China’s growing grey zone threats. The Taipei government blames Beijing for pressure efforts such as undersea cable cutting and illegal sand dredging. They aim to destabilize Taiwan without triggering open war.
President Lai Ching-te coordinated the exercise, which practiced an at-sea hostage rescue. Taiwan insists that only its people will determine their future and rejects China’s claim of sovereignty.
Simulated Hostage Crisis Exercises Readiness
The coast guard and army simulated the hijacking of a ferry by “international terrorists.” Coast guard officers boarded the ship with backup from an interior ministry rescue helicopter and an army medevac helicopter.
The three helicopters coordinated together for the first time in such an exercise. The exercise concluded with the successful evacuation of casualties, highlighting Taiwan’s increased emphasis on combined emergency responses.
Coast Guard Faces Frontline Pressure
President Lai Ching-te commended the coast guard’s efforts in dealing with daily grey zone incursions by China. These involve cutting communication cables and sending Chinese vessels for sand dredging.
Lai Ching-te stated, “Our coast guard colleagues have always stood on the front line to uphold the law and safeguard the lives and safety of the people of Taiwan. The senior US envoy in Kaohsiung, Neil Gibson, observed the drill, highlighting foreign focus on Taiwan’s defense stance.
Upgrading to Face More Threats
Taiwan’s coast guard is adding to its fleet and capabilities. Its new Anping-class corvettes, employed in the drill, are derived from the navy’s Tuo Chiang-class stealth warships. The ships are small, maneuverable, and combat-equipped for coastal defense.
Each vessel is capable of carrying Taiwan-produced Hsiung Feng anti-ship and sea-to-land missiles. They are also equipped with search and rescue gear. During war, the coast guard will function as Taiwan’s auxiliary force.
Defying Beijing
Taiwan persists in refusing to recognize China’s claims to its territory. President Lai reaffirmed the island’s democratic values and right of self-determination. He pledged to “consolidate the strength of all departments and strengthen the resilience of the entire society” in order to safeguard Taiwan’s freedom.
