Recently, President of the Republic of China (Taiwan) Lai Ching-te visited the Taichung Qingquan Military Base to inspect the “Air Force Third Tactical Fighter Squadron.” He recorded a video message for the “National Defense Spirit Capability Project Education,” aiming to boost the morale of the military preparing for the Han Guang Exercise. He encouraged the military to unite and demonstrate to the nation and the world their determination to defend the country.
The Ministry of National Defense of the Republic of China held a press conference on the “Han Guang Exercise 40 and Wan’an Exercise 47” this morning. The exercise is designed based on the possible actions of the People’s Liberation Army targeting Taiwan. The military used real troops, on-site simulations, real-time operations, and actual equipment to conduct exercises focusing on joint operations between branches and night warfare. The drills involved continuous exercises in combat readiness, overall air defense, joint interceptions, and unified territorial defense operations for five days and four nights.
Despite the Communist Party of China (CPC) never having governed Taiwan, they claim Taiwan as part of China, frequently sending military aircraft and vessels near Taiwanese territory. The Ministry of National Defense of Taiwan reported that from the morning of the 8th to 6:00 am on the present day, a total of 15 incidents of Chinese military aircraft intruding into Taiwan’s airspace, including crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait into the northern and southwestern airspace, along with 9 Chinese naval vessels engaging in activities near the Taiwan Strait. The Taiwanese military emphasized their monitoring and response using aircraft, ships, and land-based missile systems.
The Han Guang Exercise 40 will take place from the 22nd to the 26th. The Office of the President of the Republic of China stated in a press release today that the “National Defense Spirit Capability Project Education” has been conducted annually since 2005 to strengthen the patriotism and mental strength of the troops before the annual Han Guang Exercise verification. This year marks the first time the President personally delivered motivational speeches.
Upon arrival, President Lai first inspected the aircraft maintenance checks before the exercise. He then engaged in dialogues with officers and soldiers of the fighter squadron, answering their questions. When asked why he participated in the “Spiritual Strength Week,” President Lai expressed that the Han Guang Exercise is the most crucial annual training for the military. Before the exercise, the Ministry of National Defense conducts the “National Defense Spirit Capability Project Education” to consolidate the military’s spirit and reaffirm their commitment to defending the country.
Regarding the direction of national defense autonomy and the potential perception of preparing for war, President Lai mentioned that while some may have concerns, Taiwan is a peace-loving country with a population striving for peace and goodness. He emphasized the importance of safeguarding democracy and freedom as the primary motivation behind the military training efforts.
President Lai stressed that every drop of sweat shed during daily training will not be in vain, showcasing Taiwan’s military as top-tier with solid combat capabilities and a reliable defense force that ensures national security, comfort for its citizens, and deterrence to potential enemies. He encouraged everyone to confidently explain to others that their training serves the purpose of peace and safeguarding democratic freedom.
In terms of effectively leveraging asymmetric capabilities to safeguard peace in the Taiwan Strait, President Lai highlighted the necessity of innovative thinking and building multi-layered defense systems within Taiwan’s geographical environment to secure the nation’s territorial integrity.
President Lai emphasized Taiwan’s strategic importance as part of the first island chain, stating that peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait are essential for global security and prosperity. He expressed his commitment to implementing the “Four Pillars of Peace Action Plan,” of which strengthening defense and asymmetric capabilities is a crucial component. He urged for Taiwan to become a beacon of peace and a catalyst for global prosperity.
Addressing the prevention of infiltration by the CPC into the Taiwanese military, President Lai urged all military personnel to remember their duty to serve the people and defend sovereignty and democratic freedom. He emphasized the necessity of strengthening counterespionage measures and remaining vigilant to safeguard personal information security and avoid falling into traps.
Recalling his service as a medical officer on Kinmen Island, President Lai highlighted the strong sense of camaraderie among Taiwanese military personnel, united by the belief in “one island, one fate,” and the understanding that their presence ensures the safety of loved ones and their way of life. He assured continuous efforts by the government to enhance security measures across all branches of the military, urging every soldier to maintain vigilance and prevent potential threats.
President Lai then listened to the experiences of Air Force pilots on duty, commending their dedication to training and readiness to defend the country. He personally presented the soldiers with shield-shaped patches symbolizing the determination to safeguard democracy and freedom, highlighting the Republic of China’s military as a steadfast cornerstone in maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and the region.