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President William Lai Ching-te Leads Han Kuang 2026 Defense Exercises to Test Taiwan's Resilience Against PRC Invasion

Taiwanese President William Lai Ching-te led the Han Kuang 2026 defense exercises, which focused on real-world contingencies and supply chain resilience. The drills emphasized Taiwan's commitment to addressing potential PRC contingencies, including a mock decapitation strike and the first-time participation of President William Lai Ching-te in such a drill. The exercises incorporated new capabilities, such as the deployment of electronic warfare vehicles and the first-time use of an anti-blockade drill by the Coast Guard Authority. Additionally, the drills tested civilian responses to internet connectivity disruptions and the deployment of the new Littoral Combat Command. The PRC has criticized the exercises as a "charade" and a "political show," while also asserting its jurisdiction over the Taiwan Strait and the eastern exclusive economic zone. The exercises also featured the testing of American-made M1A2T Abrams tanks in an urban setting. Military analyst Erich Shih noted that while the Abrams tanks are heavier than Chinese tanks, they provide a modern platform for Taiwan's armored forces to ambush Chinese forces on roads leading into major cities.

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