The Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has launched a military exercise aimed at surrounding the Taiwan Straits on 23 May 2024.
The military drill codenamed “JOINT SWORD 2024A” was launched to serve as a strong punishment for the separatist agenda of Taiwan in its struggle for autonomy and total independence from China.
The duration of the military exercise is not stipulated, but the drill will be conducted in the Taiwan Straits, and to the north, south, and east of Taiwan including the Islands of Kinmen, Dongyin, Matsu, and Wuqiu.
The drill will focus on joint sea-air combat readiness patrols which will involve patrol ships and planes, shutting down areas around the Taiwanese Island, and integrating operations inside and outside the Straits to test their combat readiness.
The exercise is also seen as deterrence to international forces championing the independence of Taiwan, with threats directed majorly at the USA which has continued to ignore China’s warnings on Taiwan.