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The People’s Liberation Army is increasing it’s naval presence and military excercises.
The People’s Liberation Army is increasing it’s naval presence and military excercises.
What is happening?
China has showcased its newest warship, the CNS Hubei, in military drills across the South China Sea.
As the fourth vessel of the advanced Type 075 class, the ship is designed for amphibious landings and large-scale troop deployment.
A floating powerhouse
The Type 075 amphibious assault ship is a versatile vessel capable of launching helicopters, landing craft, tanks, and armored vehicles.
It enables the People’s Liberation Army Navy to rapidly deploy forces onto shorelines—an essential tool in any potential operation against Taiwan or other regional adversaries.
Taiwan prepares for the worst
Taiwan continues to ramp up its defensive drills in anticipation of a possible Chinese invasion.
Deputy Foreign Minister Wu Chihchung warned bluntly in early August: “The population need to not be naive like in the past. China is preparing to invade Taiwan.”
Still, a recent INDSR survey suggests around 65% of Taiwan’s population believes an attack within five years is unlikely.
Chinese coast guard flexes muscle near Philippines
China’s Coast Guard has dispatched at least 11 vessels near the disputed Second Thomas Shoal in the Spratly Islands, escalating tensions with the Philippines.
Manila’s military reported observing Chinese ships testing water cannons while backed by aircraft—moves seen as deliberately provocative.
Chinese naval aggression mounts
In a dramatic incident earlier this month, a Chinese navy ship collided with one of its own Coast Guard vessels during a chase of a Philippine patrol boat.
The collision caused major damage to both Chinese vessels, underscoring growing recklessness in the region’s crowded waters.
Civilian backlash grows
As Chinese ships continue their aggressive maneuvers in the West Philippine Sea, Filipino civilians have taken to the streets in protest.
The mounting frustration comes amid rising fears that Beijing’s harassment of Philippine vessels may trigger wider conflict.
Beijing targets Australia during live-fire drills
China’s military also turned its attention south, forcing Australia to reroute commercial flights as the PLA Navy conducted live-fire exercises in the Tasman Sea.
The surprise drills between Australia and New Zealand alarmed officials. “Very disconcerting for the planes that were flying,” said Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles.
Allies respond with unprecedented joint drills
In response to China’s growing assertiveness, nations including the US, UK, France, Germany, South Korea, and Australia stepped up military cooperation.
This year’s Talisman Sabre exercise—the largest to date—ran from July 13 to August 4 in Australia, showcasing deeper Indo-Pacific collaboration.
China’s fury at U.S. hypersonic missile debut
The U.S. also tested its Dark Eagle hypersonic missile during the Talisman Sabre drills—marking its first use outside American soil.
The weapon, capable of speeds over 3,800 mph, sparked harsh criticism from China, which labeled Australia a “U.S. tool” for hosting the game-changing missile system.
