Taiwan launches unscripted Han Kuang war games to counter Chinese decapitation strikes

Taiwan began its 42nd annual Han Kuang military exercise on 5 August, running for ten days until 14 August. For the first time, officers receive no pre‑written scenario, a change advised by the United States to test commanders’ ability to respond to unexpected Chinese actions, especially the PLA’s “decapitation” doctrine targeting command centres, ports and logistics.

The drill mobilises more than 20,000 reservists, incorporates US‑style “backbriefs” and other rehearsal methods, and includes civil‑defence activities such as air‑raid shelter drills and simulated communications failures. About 5,000 troops are organised into two brigades, and for the first time 108 US‑made M1A2T Abrams tanks take part. Chinese media released footage of an H‑6N strategic bomber operating alongside J‑20 stealth fighters, with observers noting a possible nuclear‑capable Jing Lei‑1 air‑launched ballistic missile under the bomber’s fuselage.

The exercise underscores Taiwan’s role in the first island chain that limits China’s access to the Pacific, and reflects heightened US‑Taiwan security cooperation amid growing regional tensions.