PENGHU (TVBS News) — Despite the onslaught of Typhoon Gaemi (凱米), Taiwan's military conducted the Cheng Chiang exercise (鎮疆操演) on Wednesday (July 24) at 5:30 a.m. in Penghu (澎湖).
The ground forces drill and live-fire exercises proceeded as scheduled, though adverse weather conditions forced the cancellation of air and naval operations.
The 40th edition of the Han Kuang military exercise (漢光40號演習) commenced across Taiwan on July 22. This exercise, which runs until July 26, focuses on "unscripted, realistic" training. The military employs live ammunition on offshore islands while using non-live ammunition on the main island.
Typhoon Gaemi disrupted the Han Kuang exercise, but the ground forces drill and live-fire exercises in Penghu persisted.
Battalion Lieutenant Colonel Cheng (鄭中校) emphasized a day earlier, "The military does not seek war, but neither does it fear it nor shy away from it".
He added that only through composed responses and rigorous training could the military effectively execute combat plans and defeat adversaries.
Cheng further noted that the military's mission is to serve as the most steadfast support for the nation's survival, development, and the safety and well-being of its citizens. As Taiwan continues its military exercises, the nation remains vigilant and prepared to confront any threats.
