China PLA Conducts Large-Scale Joint Sword 2024B Military Drills Near Taiwan.

According to information published the Chinese MoD on October 14, 2024, the Eastern Theater Command of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) of China commenced the "Joint Sword-2024B" military exercise. This large-scale drill, involving the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Rocket Force, took place in the Taiwan Strait, as well as the northern, southern, and eastern areas surrounding Taiwan.
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The Chinese aircraft carrier Liaoning. (Picture source: Chinese MoD)

The exercise focused on key operations such as maritime and aerial combat patrols, the blockade of critical ports and regions, and comprehensive control of air and sea domains. Upon receiving operational directives from the joint command center, the PLA Navy and Air Force units conducted a coordinated approach, simulating a multi-pronged encirclement of Taiwan.

In multiple zones, including the Taiwan Strait and the waters to the east and southwest of the island, several PLA Navy destroyers and frigates launched synchronized drills. After reaching the designated areas, the naval formations swiftly deployed into combat readiness, with weapons systems on high alert.

Supported by an integrated joint command system, the naval task forces carried out extensive training in maritime control and securing key regions. Meanwhile, PLA Air Force fighter jets and bombers flew across the Taiwan Strait, engaging in joint maneuvers. The aircraft, departing from several coastal airbases, formed combat groups to open airstrike corridors, supporting bombers that conducted coordinated strike drills over the Bashi Channel.

On land, long-range rocket artillery units were mobilized, swiftly organizing personnel and equipment. These units conducted joint exercises aimed at enhancing firepower coordination and high-alert mobility, improving their rapid response capabilities. A Rocket Force brigade, moving under cover of night, completed preparations for a simulated multi-wave missile strike, establishing a high-alert posture for immediate follow-up strikes.

Chinese PLA drills

China has been conducting a series of high-profile military drills around Taiwan throughout 2024. These are part of a broader strategy to demonstrate military readiness and deter what Beijing views as separatist tendencies in Taiwan.

Earlier this year, the "Joint Sword-2024A" exercise was held in May 2024. It followed Taiwan's new president William Lai's inauguration, which Beijing found provocative. This drill involved large-scale coordination between the PLA’s Navy, Air Force, Army, and Rocket Force, focusing on simulating blockades, precision strikes on key targets, and joint sea-air operations.

The PLA deployed a range of assets, including warships and fighter jets, while Rocket Force units were mobilized for simulated strikes. The exercises were also notable for integrating intelligence and anti-submarine operations.