In an unprecedented development, Taiwan’s military deployed troops armed with Javelin anti-tank missiles through metro stations in Taipei while logistical units moved food and ammunition via public mass transit. Tanks and mobile launchers navigated residential streets, underscoring the government’s efforts to familiarize civilians with the realities of urban warfare.

This year’s edition of the Han Kuang exercise — now doubled in length to 10 days — moved beyond rehearsals and beach-landing defenses. For the first time, it simulated immediate escalation from regular Chinese military maneuvers into full invasion. In a symbolic shift, the drills’ final phase focuses on country-wide, protracted resistance — a scenario officials have previously avoided discussing publicly.

Training For Survival Amid Communication Disruption

Admiral Mei Chia-shu emphasized “mission command,” a wartime doctrine where units operate independently if central communications are lost — a likely early target in any real conflict. A senior officer explained, “If China attacks, one of the first things to go will be our communications systems. So we must train to fight while disconnected.”

Still, experts caution that Taiwan’s military tradition remains heavily centralized. Sheu Jyh-Shyang of the Institute for National Defense and Security Research warned that adapting to decentralization will be a slow and difficult process.

Despite occasional mishaps — including military vehicles damaging property in tight residential streets — civilians have shown understanding. “They have to train, I understand that,” said a resident whose car was struck by a howitzer. “And our street is really too narrow.”

The drills also mark the largest-ever activation of Taiwan’s reservists and the debut of the U.S.-made Himars rocket system in public exercises, reflecting a strategic shift toward realistic, society-wide defense.