China Launches 'Justice Mission 2025' Military Drills Encircling Taiwan Amid Escalating Tensions
The drills follow the U.S. approval of an $11.1 billion arms package to Taiwan on December 18, which Beijing protested as external interference.
INDO-PACIFIC — China’s People’s Liberation Army Eastern Theater Command launched the “Justice Mission 2025” exercises on December 29, deploying army, navy, air force, and rocket force units in a large-scale operation surrounding Taiwan to test joint capabilities including sea-air combat readiness patrols, blockade of key ports, and multi-dimensional deterrence.
The drills follow the U.S. approval of an $11.1 billion arms package to Taiwan on December 18, which Beijing protested as external interference. Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense condemned the actions as irrational provocations, activating rapid response measures and placing forces on high alert.
No direct confrontations or casualties occurred during the initial phase, but the maneuvers heightened regional vigilance. International analyses from think tanks note the exercises as part of China’s strategy to assert control over the Taiwan Strait.
The operation involved vessels and aircraft approaching within Taiwan’s contiguous zone, prompting Taipei to enhance naval and air patrols.
According to PLA Eastern Theater Command spokesperson Shi Yi, the drills serve as “a stern warning against ‘Taiwan Independence’ separatist forces and external interference.”
Taiwan’s presidential office stated Beijing uses military intimidation to threaten neighboring countries. Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed concern over potential impacts on regional stability.
The U.S. Department of Defense continues monitoring, as outlined in its annual report on China’s military developments released December 23.
Timeline of Recent Developments
Events escalated with the U.S. arms approval on December 18, providing missile systems and artillery to Taiwan.
China’s foreign ministry protested the sale on December 19, labeling it a provocation.
The PLA announced the drills on December 28, with operations commencing the following day.
Taiwan issued its condemnation and mobilized forces on December 29.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s November comments on potential responses to aggression against Taiwan added to prior tensions.
Previous exercises include the August 2022 drills after Nancy Pelosi’s visit, featuring missile launches over Taiwan. Rounds in 2023 and 2024 emphasized blockade simulations.
The current operation aligns with patterns in U.S. assessments, focusing on integrated multi-domain capabilities.
Geographic Scope, Analysis and Operational Details
 | A guest post by
|