Taiwan has signalled a stronger stance in the South China Sea with a rare ministerial visit to a contested island during military drills. The move underscores Taipei’s intent to assert its presence amid rising regional tensions. Such visits are uncommon and carry strategic weight, highlighting the sensitive nature of territorial disputes and the broader geopolitical dynamics shaping the region.

Taiwan Minister Makes Rare Visit to South China Sea Island for Drills

Taiwan’s military is running large-scale exercises across land, sea, and air, simulating potential invasion scenarios. HIMARS drones, tanks, and other advanced systems were deployed to test the island’s readiness against any aggression. The drills highlight Taiwan’s growing focus on multi-domain defense and preparedness amid rising regional tensions with China.

Taiwan Conducts Massive Military Drills Across Land, Air, And Sea

Iran has conducted new missile drills that have spooked Israel, with reports suggesting the exercises could be a cover for a potential attack. Tensions rise as the U.S. monitors the situation closely. 

Iran Witnesses Biggest Protests in 3 Years, Carries Out Massive Military Drill Involving Missiles 

Amid growing tensions with Pakistan following the deadly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has directed several Indian states to begin emergency preparedness drills, according to official sources.
These mock drills are meant to strengthen civil defence capabilities and ensure quick responses in case of any hostile action and will be conducted on Wednesday (May 07). As per the MHA's plan, key steps will include:
<ul>
<li>Operationalisation of Air Raid Warning Sirens</li>
<li>Training of civilians, students, etc, on the civil defence aspects to protect themselves in the event of a hostile attack.</li>
<li>Provision of crash blackout measures</li>
<li>Provision for early camouflaging of vital plants/installations</li>
<li>Updation of evacuation plan &amp; its rehearsal</li>
</ul>
This comes in light of the April 22 Pahalgam attack, which killed 26 civilians and has been linked to Pakistan-backed terrorist groups.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/inside-india-pakistans-nuclear-arsenals-who-has-more-and-what-would-happen-if-new-delhi-islamabad-unleash-their-nukes-pahalgam-terror-attack-9007737" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Inside India, Pakistan&rsquo;s nuclear arsenals: Who has more, and what would happen if New Delhi, Islamabad unleash their nukes?</a>
<h2>India and Pakistan escalate diplomatic and military responses</h2>
Since the Pahalgam attack, relations between India and Pakistan have sharply deteriorated. Both countries have taken tit-for-tat measures, including:
<ul>
<li>Withdrawing diplomats</li>
<li>Closing ports and airspace access</li>
<li>Suspending the Indus Waters Treaty</li>
</ul>
Tensions at the Line of Control (LoC) have also risen, with India accusing Pakistan of violating ceasefire rules by firing small arms for ten straight nights.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-pakistan-got-the-nuclear-bomb-india-pahalgam-terror-attack-9007958" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Will go hungry, but get the bomb&rsquo;: How Pakistan got the nuclear bomb? A story of desperation, fear, and rivalry with India</a>
<h2>Salal Dam gates shut, water levels drop in J&amp;K</h2>
In a related move, all gates of the Salal Dam on the Chenab River were closed on Monday. This has reportedly led to a drop in water levels across parts of Jammu and Kashmir&rsquo;s Reasi district, officials told ANI.
<h2>PM Modi and Rajnath Singh vow strong retaliation</h2>
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Sunday, "It is my responsibility to give a befitting reply to those who dare to attack India." He assured that those behind the Pahalgam killings would be held accountable and that action under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership would meet public expectations.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-you-all-desire-will-happen-assures-defence-minister-rajnath-singh-on-pahalgam-retaliation-9032695" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;What you all desire will happen,&rsquo; assures defence minister Rajnath Singh on Pahalgam retaliation</a>
Last week, Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-orders-civil-defence-drills-as-pakistan-tensions-military-action-pahalgam-terror-attack-9037598">Modi</a> told a high-level security meeting that the armed forces had been given &ldquo;full operational freedom&rdquo; to decide how and when to respond.

India news: Last week, Prime Minister Modi told a high-level security meeting that the armed forces had been given “full operational freedom” to decide how and when to respond.

Amid growing tensions with Pakistan following the deadly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has directed several Indian states to begin emergency preparedness drills, according to official sources. These mock drills are meant to strengthen civil defence capabilities and ensure quick responses in case of any hostile action and will be conducted on Wednesday (May 07). As per the MHA's plan, key steps will include: Operationalisation of Air Raid Warning Sirens Training of civilians, students, etc, on the civil defence aspects to protect themselves in the event of a hostile attack. Provision of crash blackout measures Provision for early camouflaging of vital plants/installations Updation of evacuation plan & its rehearsal This comes in light of the April 22 Pahalgam attack, which killed 26 civilians and has been linked to Pakistan-backed terrorist groups. Also read: Inside India, Pakistan’s nuclear arsenals: Who has more, and what would happen if New Delhi, Islamabad unleash their nukes? India and Pakistan escalate diplomatic and military responses Since the Pahalgam attack, relations between India and Pakistan have sharply deteriorated. Both countries have taken tit-for-tat measures, including: Withdrawing diplomats Closing ports and airspace access Suspending the Indus Waters Treaty Tensions at the Line of Control (LoC) have also risen, with India accusing Pakistan of violating ceasefire rules by firing small arms for ten straight nights. Also read: 'Will go hungry, but get the bomb’: How Pakistan got the nuclear bomb? A story of desperation, fear, and rivalry with India Salal Dam gates shut, water levels drop in J&K In a related move, all gates of the Salal Dam on the Chenab River were closed on Monday. This has reportedly led to a drop in water levels across parts of Jammu and Kashmir’s Reasi district, officials told ANI. PM Modi and Rajnath Singh vow strong retaliation Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Sunday, "It is my responsibility to give a befitting reply to those who dare to attack India." He assured that those behind the Pahalgam killings would be held accountable and that action under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership would meet public expectations. Also read: ‘What you all desire will happen,’ assures defence minister Rajnath Singh on Pahalgam retaliation Last week, Prime Minister Modi told a high-level security meeting that the armed forces had been given “full operational freedom” to decide how and when to respond.

'Air raid sirens, civilian training': India orders civil defence drills on May 7 as tensions with Pakistan rise: Govt sources

Heightened tension in West Asia as Iran's armed forces and navy carried out joint military drills in the Makran Coast. The drills, named Zolfaqar 1403, aim to test a range of military capabilities, integrating new technologies and advanced combat tactics.

Iran's joint military drills along Makran coast; advanced drones, missiles on display

Taiwan detected a record 153 Chinese military aircraft around the self-ruled island, official data showed Tuesday, after China held a day of large-scale drills.

The aircraft were spotted in the 25 hours to 6:00 am on Tuesday (2200 GMT Monday), the defence ministry said in a statement -- the most for a single day.

Beijing deployed fighter jets, drones, warships and coast guard boats to encircle Taiwan on Monday, with Taiwan responding by dispatching "appropriate forces" and placing its outlying islands on heightened alert.

Taiwan condemned China's actions as "irrational and provocative", and the US called them "unwarranted".

Japan said Tuesday it had expressed its "concerns" to China over the drills, and scrambled fighter jets near its southern island of Yonaguni.

"The government is closely monitoring the related activities with great interest, and has conveyed Japan's concerns to the Chinese side," deputy chief cabinet secretary Kazuhiko Aoki told reporters.

Taiwan's foreign ministry on Tuesday urged China "not to cause trouble for no reason and become a troublemaker that undermines peace and stability".

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/uk-prioritises-trade-deals-with-india-and-gulf-nations-says-business-minister-767637">UK prioritises trade deals with India and Gulf nations, says Business Minister</a>

China claims Taiwan as part of its territory and insisted Monday it will never renounce the use of force to bring the island under its control.&nbsp;

Beijing has ramped up military pressure on Taipei in recent years to accept its claims of sovereignty over the island, and Monday represented the fourth round of large-scale drills in just over two years.

Taiwan's defence ministry also recorded 14 Chinese navy ships in the latest 25-hour period, slightly fewer than the 17 announced Monday afternoon.

Of the aircraft spotted, 111 crossed the median line of the sensitive Taiwan Strait that separates mainland China and Taiwan, the figures showed.

<h2>- 'Unwarranted' -</h2>

The United States said China's actions on Monday were "unwarranted" and risked "escalation" as it called on Beijing to act with restraint.

China said the drills, dubbed Joint Sword 2024B, were held in areas to the north, south and east of Taiwan.&nbsp;

Beijing declared them over by around 6:00 pm on Monday, about 13 hours after they started.

China said the exercises served as a "stern warning to the separatist acts of 'Taiwan Independence' forces".

Taiwan President Lai Ching-te, who took office in May, has been more outspoken than his predecessor Tsai Ing-wen in defending Taiwan's sovereignty, angering Beijing, which calls him a "separatist".

In his National Day speech on Thursday, Lai vowed to "resist annexation" and insisted that Beijing and Taipei were "not subordinate to each other".

Lai pledged Monday to "protect democratic Taiwan and safeguard national security".

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sco-summit-2024-check-key-attendees-dates-and-agenda-s-jaishankar-to-attend-767640">SCO Summit 2024: Check key attendees, dates and agenda, S. Jaishankar to attend</a>

In late May, three days after Lai's inauguration, China launched Joint Sword-2024A, an apparent precursor to the latest drills.

People in Taipei appeared to be unfazed by the exercises.

"To denounce and threaten with military force is not a big deal and we don't think it is possible that it will invade us with force," 78-year-old retiree Lai Chih-wai told AFP.

"It's not there yet. Their action is like dogs barking."&nbsp;

The dispute between China and Taiwan dates back to a civil war in which the nationalist forces of Chiang Kai-shek were defeated by Mao Zedong's communist fighters and fled to the island in 1949.

China and Taiwan have been ruled separately since then.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Taiwan detected a record 153 Chinese military aircraft around the self-ruled island, official data showed Tuesday, after China held a day of large-scale drills. The aircraft were spotted in the 25 hours to 6:00 am on Tuesday (2200 GMT Monday), the defence ministry said in a statement -- the most for a single day.

Taiwan detected a record 153 Chinese military aircraft around the self-ruled island, official data showed Tuesday, after China held a day of large-scale drills. The aircraft were spotted in the 25 hours to 6:00 am on Tuesday (2200 GMT Monday), the defence ministry said in a statement -- the most for a single day. Beijing deployed fighter jets, drones, warships and coast guard boats to encircle Taiwan on Monday, with Taiwan responding by dispatching "appropriate forces" and placing its outlying islands on heightened alert. Taiwan condemned China's actions as "irrational and provocative", and the US called them "unwarranted". Japan said Tuesday it had expressed its "concerns" to China over the drills, and scrambled fighter jets near its southern island of Yonaguni. "The government is closely monitoring the related activities with great interest, and has conveyed Japan's concerns to the Chinese side," deputy chief cabinet secretary Kazuhiko Aoki told reporters. Taiwan's foreign ministry on Tuesday urged China "not to cause trouble for no reason and become a troublemaker that undermines peace and stability". Also Read | UK prioritises trade deals with India and Gulf nations, says Business Minister China claims Taiwan as part of its territory and insisted Monday it will never renounce the use of force to bring the island under its control. Beijing has ramped up military pressure on Taipei in recent years to accept its claims of sovereignty over the island, and Monday represented the fourth round of large-scale drills in just over two years. Taiwan's defence ministry also recorded 14 Chinese navy ships in the latest 25-hour period, slightly fewer than the 17 announced Monday afternoon. Of the aircraft spotted, 111 crossed the median line of the sensitive Taiwan Strait that separates mainland China and Taiwan, the figures showed. - 'Unwarranted' - The United States said China's actions on Monday were "unwarranted" and risked "escalation" as it called on Beijing to act with restraint. China said the drills, dubbed Joint Sword 2024B, were held in areas to the north, south and east of Taiwan. Beijing declared them over by around 6:00 pm on Monday, about 13 hours after they started. China said the exercises served as a "stern warning to the separatist acts of 'Taiwan Independence' forces". Taiwan President Lai Ching-te, who took office in May, has been more outspoken than his predecessor Tsai Ing-wen in defending Taiwan's sovereignty, angering Beijing, which calls him a "separatist". In his National Day speech on Thursday, Lai vowed to "resist annexation" and insisted that Beijing and Taipei were "not subordinate to each other". Lai pledged Monday to "protect democratic Taiwan and safeguard national security". Also Read | SCO Summit 2024: Check key attendees, dates and agenda, S. Jaishankar to attend In late May, three days after Lai's inauguration, China launched Joint Sword-2024A, an apparent precursor to the latest drills. People in Taipei appeared to be unfazed by the exercises. "To denounce and threaten with military force is not a big deal and we don't think it is possible that it will invade us with force," 78-year-old retiree Lai Chih-wai told AFP. "It's not there yet. Their action is like dogs barking." The dispute between China and Taiwan dates back to a civil war in which the nationalist forces of Chiang Kai-shek were defeated by Mao Zedong's communist fighters and fled to the island in 1949. China and Taiwan have been ruled separately since then. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Taiwan records 153 Chinese military aircraft after large-scale drills

China insisted on Monday it would never renounce the "use of force" to take control of Taiwan, after ending a day of military drills around the self-ruled island that Beijing said was a "stern warning" to "separatist" forces.

Beijing, which claims Taiwan as part of its own territory, deployed fighter jets, drones, warships and coast guard vessels to encircle the island in its fourth round of large-scale war games in just over two years.

The United States said China's actions were "unwarranted" and risked "escalation" as it called on Beijing to act with restraint.

China declared the drills over at around 6:00 pm (1000 GMT), about 13 hours after they had begun.

"We sincerely strive for the prospect of peaceful reunification, but we will never promise to renounce the use of force and will not leave any space for 'Taiwan independence'," Ministry of National Defense spokesperson Wu Qian said soon after.

The exercises, dubbed Joint Sword-2024B, had "fully tested the integrated joint operation capabilities of its troops", military spokesperson Captain Li Xi said in a statement.

President Lai Ching-te, who took office in May, has been more outspoken than his predecessor Tsai Ing-wen in defending Taiwan's sovereignty, angering Beijing, which calls him a "separatist".

Lai vowed on Monday to "protect democratic Taiwan and safeguard national security", while the defence ministry said it had dispatched "appropriate forces" in response to the drills.

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Taiwan detected 125 Chinese aircraft, including fighter jets and drones from early morning to late afternoon, a defence ministry official said, describing it as a record for a single day. Seventeen warships were also spotted.

Outlying islands administered by Taipei had been put on "heightened alert", Taiwan's defence ministry said.

Beijing said its exercises served as a "stern warning to the separatist acts of 'Taiwan Independence' forces".

The drills took place in "areas to the north, south and east of Taiwan Island", Li said earlier.

Their aim was to focus "on subjects of sea-air combat-readiness patrol, blockade on key ports and areas", Li said.

They also practised an "assault on maritime and ground targets".

The previous large-scale drills held in May, three days after Lai's inauguration, were called "Joint Sword-2024A" and lasted two days.

- China coast guard 'inspections' -

China's coast guard was also sent to conduct "inspections", with a diagram released by the coast guard showing four fleets encircling Taiwan and moving anti-clockwise around the island.

The coast guard of the eastern province of Fujian -- the closest area on the mainland to Taiwan -- also said it conducted "comprehensive law enforcement patrols" in waters near the Taipei-controlled Matsu islands.

Taiwan said four "formations" of China coast guard ships had patrolled the island and briefly entered its restricted waters, but not its prohibited waters.

China has ramped up military activity around Taiwan in recent years, sending warplanes and other military aircraft while its ships maintain a near-constant presence around the island's waters.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/demi-lovatos-fiance-jutes-almost-broke-down-crying-during-adorable-proposal-767338">Demi Lovato's fiancé Jutes 'almost broke down crying' during adorable proposal</a>

"In the face of enemy threats, all officers and soldiers of the country are in full readiness," Taiwan's defence ministry said on Monday.

Lai convened a high-level security meeting over the drills, said Joseph Wu, secretary-general of the National Security Council, who described the exercises as "inconsistent with international law".

He vowed in his National Day speech on Thursday to "resist annexation" and insisted that Beijing and Taipei were "not subordinate to each other".

Lai's Democratic Progressive Party has long defended the sovereignty and democracy of Taiwan, which has its own government, military and currency.

Beijing said on Monday the drills were "a legitimate and necessary operation for safeguarding state sovereignty and national unity".

- 'Feel a bit numb' -

Lieutenant Colonel Fu Zhengnan, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Military Sciences, said in a video shared by state media that the drills could "switch from training to combat at any time".

"If Taiwan separatists provoke once, the PLA's operation around the island will make their first move," Fu said, referring to China's People's Liberation Army.

Taiwan's coast guard said on Monday it had detained a Chinese man on one of its outlying islands after a possible "grey zone intrusion", referring to tactics that fall short of a direct act of war.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nobel-prize-in-economics-awarded-to-daron-acemoglu-simon-johnson-and-james-robinson-767296">Nobel in Economics awarded to Daron Acemoglu, Simon Johnson and James Robinson</a>

In Taipei, people appeared to be largely unperturbed.

"I won't panic too much because they quite often have drills," 34-year-old engineer Benjamin Hsiao told AFP.

"It's not the first time in recent years anyway, so I feel a bit numb."

The dispute between China and Taiwan dates back to a civil war in which the nationalist forces of Chiang Kai-shek were defeated by Mao Zedong's communist fighters and fled to the island in 1949.

China and Taiwan have been ruled separately since then.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

China insisted on Monday it would never renounce the "use of force" to take control of Taiwan, after ending a day of military drills around the self-ruled island that Beijing said was a "stern warning" to "separatist" forces.

China insisted on Monday it would never renounce the "use of force" to take control of Taiwan, after ending a day of military drills around the self-ruled island that Beijing said was a "stern warning" to "separatist" forces. Beijing, which claims Taiwan as part of its own territory, deployed fighter jets, drones, warships and coast guard vessels to encircle the island in its fourth round of large-scale war games in just over two years. The United States said China's actions were "unwarranted" and risked "escalation" as it called on Beijing to act with restraint. China declared the drills over at around 6:00 pm (1000 GMT), about 13 hours after they had begun. "We sincerely strive for the prospect of peaceful reunification, but we will never promise to renounce the use of force and will not leave any space for 'Taiwan independence'," Ministry of National Defense spokesperson Wu Qian said soon after. The exercises, dubbed Joint Sword-2024B, had "fully tested the integrated joint operation capabilities of its troops", military spokesperson Captain Li Xi said in a statement. President Lai Ching-te, who took office in May, has been more outspoken than his predecessor Tsai Ing-wen in defending Taiwan's sovereignty, angering Beijing, which calls him a "separatist". Lai vowed on Monday to "protect democratic Taiwan and safeguard national security", while the defence ministry said it had dispatched "appropriate forces" in response to the drills. Also Read | India recalls high commissioner, top diplomats to Canada as ties collapse Taiwan detected 125 Chinese aircraft, including fighter jets and drones from early morning to late afternoon, a defence ministry official said, describing it as a record for a single day. Seventeen warships were also spotted. Outlying islands administered by Taipei had been put on "heightened alert", Taiwan's defence ministry said. Beijing said its exercises served as a "stern warning to the separatist acts of 'Taiwan Independence' forces". The drills took place in "areas to the north, south and east of Taiwan Island", Li said earlier. Their aim was to focus "on subjects of sea-air combat-readiness patrol, blockade on key ports and areas", Li said. They also practised an "assault on maritime and ground targets". The previous large-scale drills held in May, three days after Lai's inauguration, were called "Joint Sword-2024A" and lasted two days. - China coast guard 'inspections' - China's coast guard was also sent to conduct "inspections", with a diagram released by the coast guard showing four fleets encircling Taiwan and moving anti-clockwise around the island. The coast guard of the eastern province of Fujian -- the closest area on the mainland to Taiwan -- also said it conducted "comprehensive law enforcement patrols" in waters near the Taipei-controlled Matsu islands. Taiwan said four "formations" of China coast guard ships had patrolled the island and briefly entered its restricted waters, but not its prohibited waters. China has ramped up military activity around Taiwan in recent years, sending warplanes and other military aircraft while its ships maintain a near-constant presence around the island's waters. Also Read | Demi Lovato's fiancé Jutes 'almost broke down crying' during adorable proposal "In the face of enemy threats, all officers and soldiers of the country are in full readiness," Taiwan's defence ministry said on Monday. Lai convened a high-level security meeting over the drills, said Joseph Wu, secretary-general of the National Security Council, who described the exercises as "inconsistent with international law". He vowed in his National Day speech on Thursday to "resist annexation" and insisted that Beijing and Taipei were "not subordinate to each other". Lai's Democratic Progressive Party has long defended the sovereignty and democracy of Taiwan, which has its own government, military and currency. Beijing said on Monday the drills were "a legitimate and necessary operation for safeguarding state sovereignty and national unity". - 'Feel a bit numb' - Lieutenant Colonel Fu Zhengnan, a researcher at the Chinese Academy of Military Sciences, said in a video shared by state media that the drills could "switch from training to combat at any time". "If Taiwan separatists provoke once, the PLA's operation around the island will make their first move," Fu said, referring to China's People's Liberation Army. Taiwan's coast guard said on Monday it had detained a Chinese man on one of its outlying islands after a possible "grey zone intrusion", referring to tactics that fall short of a direct act of war. Also Read | Nobel in Economics awarded to Daron Acemoglu, Simon Johnson and James Robinson In Taipei, people appeared to be largely unperturbed. "I won't panic too much because they quite often have drills," 34-year-old engineer Benjamin Hsiao told AFP. "It's not the first time in recent years anyway, so I feel a bit numb." The dispute between China and Taiwan dates back to a civil war in which the nationalist forces of Chiang Kai-shek were defeated by Mao Zedong's communist fighters and fled to the island in 1949. China and Taiwan have been ruled separately since then. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

China reiterates stand of not renouncing 'use of force' to take Taiwan’s control as military drills end

China and Tanzania held the joint military exercise. The joint exercise is carrying out under the theme of joint counter-terrorism military operations.

China, Tanzania hold joint military drill in backdrop of anti-terror operations

Belarus and China began joint anti-terrorism military drills on Monday. Dubbed Eagle Assault 2024, the 11-day exercise will see troops practice night landings, overcome water obstacles and engage in urban combat drills.

China conduct military drills with Russia and Belarus near NATO border

Over the Korean peninsula, a joint training exercise between South Korean fighter jets and a US B-1 strategic bomber demonstrated the precise strike capabilities of the JDAM. The exercise comes after North Korea's provocations prompted South Korea to resume military exercises.

US and South Korea stage joint military drills amid escalating tensions

NATO has begun an extensive military exercise across its newly enlarged Nordic territories spanning Norway, Sweden and Finland. Nordic Response 2024 involves a total of 20,000 troops from NATO member states including the UK.

NATO launches mega exercises with Nordic nations Finland, Sweden and Norway

NATO announced Thursday that it would begin its largest military exercise- Steadfast Defender 2024 next week, involving 90,000 troops and testing the allies' ability over months to engage in a conflict with an adversary like Russia.

NATO's biggest military exercise after cold war with 90,000 troops

NATO's Biggest Military Exercise: Steadfast defender 2024 drills

NATO's Biggest Military Exercise: Know who will participate, major locations

In one of the most serious military escalations between the North and South Korea in recent history, North Korea fired over 200 artillery shells on Friday, sparking tensions between the neighbours and forcing South Korea to evacuate two of its island towns.

South Korea conducts a live fire drills as North shells border islands

North Korea fired artillery rounds near its disputed sea boundary with South Korea on Friday in violation of a fragile 2018 military agreement, officials said, prompting the South to plan similar drills.

North Korea conducts artillery drills near South Korean islands

Ahead of the G20 Summit scheduled to be held in New Delhi, the Indian Air Force has announced to hold a major training exercise codenamed 'Trishul.' Interestingly, the drills will be carried out in the northern sector along with the borders of China and Pakistan.

According to ANI, the exercise will be a grand event that&nbsp;will witness the participation of&nbsp;major fleets of fighter aircraft including the Rafale, Mirage 2000 and the Su-30MKIs.

Heavy-lift transport aircraft and choppers including the Chinooks and Apache will also take part in the military drills.&nbsp;Garud Special Forces are also part of the drills where all elements of air power are likely to be exercised, ANI reported.

<h2>When will the drills take place?</h2>

As per the report, the exercise will take place from September 4 to 14, overlapping with the G20 summit slated to be held from Sept. 9-10.

The training drills will be held in the northern sector including Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab.

<h2>Tarang Shakti</h2>

The latest announcement comes as the IAF plans to carry out a multi-lateral exercise called Tarang Shakti in October-November.

This will also see the participation of fighter jets, military transport aircraft, mid-air refuellers and airborne warning and control system (AWACS) aircraft.

Watch:&nbsp;Indian Air Force deploys fighter jets along Line of Actual Control (LAC)

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A total of six air forces will participate in the event, while several others will take part as observers. The air forces of the US, the UK, France and Australia are among those likely to take part in the exercise.

<h2>Recent major exercises by the IAF</h2>

The Indian Air Force earlier took part in the INIOCHOS exercise hosted by the Hellenic Air Force at the Andravida air base in Greece.

In April, it conducted a joint military drill with the US under the Cope India 2023 banner. The drills were held across three bases in the country – Kalaikunda, Panagarh and Agra.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-air-force-airlifted-68000-soldiers-90-tanks-to-eastern-ladakh-after-galwan-clash-625200">Also read:&nbsp;Indian Air Force airlifted 68,000 soldiers, 90 tanks to eastern Ladakh after Galwan clash</a>

The bilateral exercise involved four US F-15E Strike Eagle fighter jets, two C-130J special operations aircraft, and a C-17 heavy-lifter. The IAF aircraft included Su-30s, Rafales, Jaguars, Tejas light combat aircraft, C-17s and C-130Js. 
 
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&nbsp;

Ahead of the G20 Summit scheduled to be held in New Delhi, the Indian Air Force has announced to hold a major training exercise codenamed 'Trishul.' Interestingly, the drills will be carried out in the northern sector along with the borders of China and Pakistan.

Ahead of the G20 Summit scheduled to be held in New Delhi, the Indian Air Force has announced to hold a major training exercise codenamed 'Trishul.' Interestingly, the drills will be carried out in the northern sector along with the borders of China and Pakistan. According to ANI, the exercise will be a grand event that will witness the participation of major fleets of fighter aircraft including the Rafale, Mirage 2000 and the Su-30MKIs. Heavy-lift transport aircraft and choppers including the Chinooks and Apache will also take part in the military drills. Garud Special Forces are also part of the drills where all elements of air power are likely to be exercised, ANI reported. When will the drills take place? As per the report, the exercise will take place from September 4 to 14, overlapping with the G20 summit slated to be held from Sept. 9-10. The training drills will be held in the northern sector including Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab. Tarang Shakti The latest announcement comes as the IAF plans to carry out a multi-lateral exercise called Tarang Shakti in October-November. This will also see the participation of fighter jets, military transport aircraft, mid-air refuellers and airborne warning and control system (AWACS) aircraft. Watch: Indian Air Force deploys fighter jets along Line of Actual Control (LAC) × A total of six air forces will participate in the event, while several others will take part as observers. The air forces of the US, the UK, France and Australia are among those likely to take part in the exercise. Recent major exercises by the IAF The Indian Air Force earlier took part in the INIOCHOS exercise hosted by the Hellenic Air Force at the Andravida air base in Greece. In April, it conducted a joint military drill with the US under the Cope India 2023 banner. The drills were held across three bases in the country – Kalaikunda, Panagarh and Agra. Also read: Indian Air Force airlifted 68,000 soldiers, 90 tanks to eastern Ladakh after Galwan clash The bilateral exercise involved four US F-15E Strike Eagle fighter jets, two C-130J special operations aircraft, and a C-17 heavy-lifter. The IAF aircraft included Su-30s, Rafales, Jaguars, Tejas light combat aircraft, C-17s and C-130Js. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Indian Air Force to carry out mega military drill with China and Pakistan near borders

A day after China announced the completion of military drills, Taiwan’s defence ministry, on Tuesday (April 11) said it detected nine Chinese warships and 26 aircraft around the self-governing island. This also comes hours after Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen criticised Beijing for its ‘irresponsible’ behaviour, in reference to the recent drills, dubbed as “Joint Sword”.&nbsp;

Chinese ships, aircraft remain around Taiwan after the drills

As of 11:00 am (local time), China “organised military aircraft this morning and crossed the median line from the north, the centre, and the south,” said Taiwan’s defence ministry. The nine Chinese ships and 26 aircraft, including J-16 and Su-30 fighters, were seen carrying out combat readiness patrols around the island, said the defence ministry, as per Reuters.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-ends-military-drills-around-taiwan-which-simulated-sealing-off-the-island-580988">China ends military drills around Taiwan which simulated 'sealing off' the island</a>

Taiwan’s defence ministry also said that their air force, navy and shore-based missile crews are closely monitoring the situation and responding. The wargames which were first announced, on Saturday, began hours after Tsai returned from her meeting in Los Angeles with the United States House of Representatives Speaker Kevin McCarthy, which China has since condemned.&nbsp;

China claims the democratically governed Taiwan as its territory and threatens to use force to bring the island under its control. Meanwhile, the Taiwanese government contests China’s claims.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-when-will-china-invade-taiwan-581148">Gravitas: When will China invade Taiwan?</a>

The United States and European Union, during the drills which were supposed to end on Monday, also asked Beijing to exercise “restraint”. Additionally, Taiwan’s government has repeatedly denounced the drills and reiterated that it will not escalate or provoke.

Taiwan’s Tsai slams China for ‘irresponsible’ behaviour over military drills

Tsai, late Monday took to Facebook and wrote that as the president “I represent my country to the world,” adding that her visits outside the island including stops in the US are not new and what Taiwan’s people expect. “However, China is using this to launch military exercises to cause instability in Taiwan and the region, which is not the responsible attitude of a regional power,” said Tsai. 
 
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-how-people-in-beijing-and-taipei-have-reacted-to-chinas-military-drills-580445">Explained | How people in Beijing and Taipei have reacted to China’s military drills&nbsp;</a>

She also went on to thank Taiwan’s military personnel for a “high degree of professionalism and sense of mission,” during China’s military drills. She added, “The protection of democratic Taiwan is the top priority. Although China's military exercises have come to an end, the national army and national security team will continue to hold their positions and defend the country.”

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

A day after China announced the completion of military drills, Taiwan’s defence ministry, on Tuesday (April 11) said it detected nine Chinese warships and 26 aircraft around the self-governing island.

A day after China announced the completion of military drills, Taiwan’s defence ministry, on Tuesday (April 11) said it detected nine Chinese warships and 26 aircraft around the self-governing island. This also comes hours after Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen criticised Beijing for its ‘irresponsible’ behaviour, in reference to the recent drills, dubbed as “Joint Sword”. Chinese ships, aircraft remain around Taiwan after the drills As of 11:00 am (local time), China “organised military aircraft this morning and crossed the median line from the north, the centre, and the south,” said Taiwan’s defence ministry. The nine Chinese ships and 26 aircraft, including J-16 and Su-30 fighters, were seen carrying out combat readiness patrols around the island, said the defence ministry, as per Reuters. ALSO READ | China ends military drills around Taiwan which simulated 'sealing off' the island Taiwan’s defence ministry also said that their air force, navy and shore-based missile crews are closely monitoring the situation and responding. The wargames which were first announced, on Saturday, began hours after Tsai returned from her meeting in Los Angeles with the United States House of Representatives Speaker Kevin McCarthy, which China has since condemned. China claims the democratically governed Taiwan as its territory and threatens to use force to bring the island under its control. Meanwhile, the Taiwanese government contests China’s claims. ALSO WATCH | Gravitas: When will China invade Taiwan? The United States and European Union, during the drills which were supposed to end on Monday, also asked Beijing to exercise “restraint”. Additionally, Taiwan’s government has repeatedly denounced the drills and reiterated that it will not escalate or provoke. Taiwan’s Tsai slams China for ‘irresponsible’ behaviour over military drills Tsai, late Monday took to Facebook and wrote that as the president “I represent my country to the world,” adding that her visits outside the island including stops in the US are not new and what Taiwan’s people expect. “However, China is using this to launch military exercises to cause instability in Taiwan and the region, which is not the responsible attitude of a regional power,” said Tsai. ALSO READ | Explained | How people in Beijing and Taipei have reacted to China’s military drills She also went on to thank Taiwan’s military personnel for a “high degree of professionalism and sense of mission,” during China’s military drills. She added, “The protection of democratic Taiwan is the top priority. Although China's military exercises have come to an end, the national army and national security team will continue to hold their positions and defend the country.” (With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan detects nine Chinese warships, 26 aircraft after Beijing announced end of military drills

China, early Saturday (April 8), announced that it was launching a three-day military drill in the Taiwan Strait. According to the People’s Liberation Army’s Eastern Theatre Command, “United Sharp Sword” would begin on April 8 and end on April 10 for “combat preparedness.”&nbsp;

The announcement, in the backdrop of the recent escalation in tensions between Beijing and Taipei, took many by surprise but it has not had a similar effect on the residents of either China or Taiwan.&nbsp;

Military drills in Taiwan Strait

After China’s announcement, its fighter jets briefly crossed the sensitive median line of the Taiwan Strait as they began drills around Taiwan. This comes after Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen met United States House of Representatives Speaker Kevin McCarthy and other officials during her visit to the U.S., which Beijing has since condemned.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-announces-three-days-of-military-drills-in-taiwan-strait-580297">Taiwan detects 8 Chinese warships, 42 fighter jets around island as Beijing launches military drills</a>

China’s anger at the visit largely stems from its claims that the democratically governed Taiwan is its territory and threatens&nbsp;to use force to bring the island under its control. Meanwhile, the Taiwanese government contests China’s claims.&nbsp;

In line with this, the Chinese army’s Eastern Theater Command said that the drills are a “serious warning to the Taiwan independence separatist forces and external forces’ collusion and provocation, and it is a necessary action to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity.”&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Taiwan’s Defence Ministry said it was monitoring the drills and would respond appropriately to defend the island’s security and released a video message, emphasising they would monitor the situation without escalating tensions. The video shows Taiwan’s army, navy and air force conducting drills and monitoring China’s movements.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/stern-warning-chinas-wargames-after-meeting-between-us-house-speaker-and-taiwan-president-580364">'Stern warning': China's wargames after meeting between U.S. House Speaker and Taiwan President</a>

Taiwan’s president, who was in the midst of hosting a US lawmakers' delegation, led by Michael McCaul, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said that the people of Taiwan love democracy and seek peace. She added that it would strengthen security cooperation with the US without directly mentioning the drills in her televised address.&nbsp;

Chinese citizens largely in favour of reunifying Taiwan with mainland

A report by Reuters after speaking to citizens in Beijing said that while people are largely in support of the military drills around Taiwan, some are also worried about how it will affect their business. “Military exercises are what we should do…let's take Taiwan with military force,” said Wang, 35, who only provided his last name.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, 39-year-old Zhou told the news agency, that she was a “bit worried” as her work involves international trade with the main markets being the United States and Canada and many others who work in similar fields are concerned about how escalating tensions would impact their jobs.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-military-drills-near-taiwan-live-updates-china-launches-three-day-military-drills-after-tsai-us-speaker-meeting-580333">China military drills near Taiwan highlights: Chinese planes briefly cross Taiwan Strait median line</a>

On the other hand, Chinese tourists on an island near Taiwan were largely unaware and least bothered by Beijing’s military drill launch in the strait beyond, reported the news agency AFP. The tourists at the time were present along the coast of Pingtan, a scenic isle that is the closest point on the mainland to Taiwan.&nbsp;

“I saw the news, but it’s not going to stop our plans for today,” a 30-year-old visitor named Wu told AFP. He added, “Relations with Taiwan aren't great at the moment, but they’re stable. We hope for peaceful reunification.”&nbsp;

Similarly, another man named Lin said that the drills were just “a few preventive measures being taken by the government,” and hoped that China and Taiwan would reunify someday.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-announces-military-drills-around-taiwan-after-tsai-mccarthy-meet-580328">China announces military drills around Taiwan after Tsai-McCarthy meet</a>

“The drills are just a way to show our national strength, after all. Our government's response to Tsai's visit to the U.S. is quite strong - &nbsp;took her down a couple of notches and restored people's confidence for us to reclaim Taiwan,” Chen, a 25-year-old college student from Guangdong province visiting Pingtan island, told Reuters. Chen also expressed hope that China can reclaim Taiwan in a “peaceful” way.

Taiwan remains calm amid military drills

There was no broader sense of alarm in Taiwan about the military drills as people have long been accustomed to Chinese threats, reported Reuters, citing a senior Taiwan official familiar with security planning in the region who spoke to the news agency on the condition of anonymity. The official said that the situation was “as expected” and manageable and the Taiwanese government has rehearsed various scenarios for its response.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-sanctions-reagan-library-stations-warship-aircraft-near-taiwan-after-tsai-mccarthy-meet-580207">China sanctions Reagan library, stations warship, aircraft near Taiwan after Tsai-McCarthy meet</a>

“I have seen the news (about the China drills), when there were things like this in the past, before the war in Ukraine, I always just thought it’s how things are. Even now&nbsp;I don’t totally think that these drills will create security concerns for us, but everything that they (China) do, is to push the limits,” Lu Chi-hao, 30, told Reuters.&nbsp;

This comes as China’s amphibious landing ship — capable of transporting troops, craft and vehicles — fired multiple rounds of artillery early Saturday in the Luoyan Bay area on the coast of Fujian province.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-imposes-sanctions-on-taiwans-de-facto-ambassador-to-us-after-tsai-mccarthy-meet-579964">China imposes sanctions on Taiwan’s de facto ambassador to US after Tsai-McCarthy meet</a>

“We are already numb to it, because they have really said this (unification) for a long time. But I think, since we still have to go on with our lives, us Taiwanese have to remain calm,” a 25-year-old social media influencer named Johhny Lin told Reuters.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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China, early Saturday (April 8), announced that it was launching a three-day military drill in the Taiwan Strait. According to the People’s Liberation Army’s Eastern Theatre Command, “United Sharp Sword” would begin on April 8 and end on April 10 for “combat preparedness.

China, early Saturday (April 8), announced that it was launching a three-day military drill in the Taiwan Strait. According to the People’s Liberation Army’s Eastern Theatre Command, “United Sharp Sword” would begin on April 8 and end on April 10 for “combat preparedness.” The announcement, in the backdrop of the recent escalation in tensions between Beijing and Taipei, took many by surprise but it has not had a similar effect on the residents of either China or Taiwan. Military drills in Taiwan Strait After China’s announcement, its fighter jets briefly crossed the sensitive median line of the Taiwan Strait as they began drills around Taiwan. This comes after Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen met United States House of Representatives Speaker Kevin McCarthy and other officials during her visit to the U.S., which Beijing has since condemned. ALSO READ | Taiwan detects 8 Chinese warships, 42 fighter jets around island as Beijing launches military drills China’s anger at the visit largely stems from its claims that the democratically governed Taiwan is its territory and threatens to use force to bring the island under its control. Meanwhile, the Taiwanese government contests China’s claims. In line with this, the Chinese army’s Eastern Theater Command said that the drills are a “serious warning to the Taiwan independence separatist forces and external forces’ collusion and provocation, and it is a necessary action to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity.” Meanwhile, Taiwan’s Defence Ministry said it was monitoring the drills and would respond appropriately to defend the island’s security and released a video message, emphasising they would monitor the situation without escalating tensions. The video shows Taiwan’s army, navy and air force conducting drills and monitoring China’s movements. ALSO WATCH | 'Stern warning': China's wargames after meeting between U.S. House Speaker and Taiwan President Taiwan’s president, who was in the midst of hosting a US lawmakers' delegation, led by Michael McCaul, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said that the people of Taiwan love democracy and seek peace. She added that it would strengthen security cooperation with the US without directly mentioning the drills in her televised address. Chinese citizens largely in favour of reunifying Taiwan with mainland A report by Reuters after speaking to citizens in Beijing said that while people are largely in support of the military drills around Taiwan, some are also worried about how it will affect their business. “Military exercises are what we should do…let's take Taiwan with military force,” said Wang, 35, who only provided his last name. Meanwhile, 39-year-old Zhou told the news agency, that she was a “bit worried” as her work involves international trade with the main markets being the United States and Canada and many others who work in similar fields are concerned about how escalating tensions would impact their jobs. ALSO READ | China military drills near Taiwan highlights: Chinese planes briefly cross Taiwan Strait median line On the other hand, Chinese tourists on an island near Taiwan were largely unaware and least bothered by Beijing’s military drill launch in the strait beyond, reported the news agency AFP. The tourists at the time were present along the coast of Pingtan, a scenic isle that is the closest point on the mainland to Taiwan. “I saw the news, but it’s not going to stop our plans for today,” a 30-year-old visitor named Wu told AFP. He added, “Relations with Taiwan aren't great at the moment, but they’re stable. We hope for peaceful reunification.” Similarly, another man named Lin said that the drills were just “a few preventive measures being taken by the government,” and hoped that China and Taiwan would reunify someday. ALSO WATCH | China announces military drills around Taiwan after Tsai-McCarthy meet “The drills are just a way to show our national strength, after all. Our government's response to Tsai's visit to the U.S. is quite strong - took her down a couple of notches and restored people's confidence for us to reclaim Taiwan,” Chen, a 25-year-old college student from Guangdong province visiting Pingtan island, told Reuters. Chen also expressed hope that China can reclaim Taiwan in a “peaceful” way. Taiwan remains calm amid military drills There was no broader sense of alarm in Taiwan about the military drills as people have long been accustomed to Chinese threats, reported Reuters, citing a senior Taiwan official familiar with security planning in the region who spoke to the news agency on the condition of anonymity. The official said that the situation was “as expected” and manageable and the Taiwanese government has rehearsed various scenarios for its response. ALSO READ | China sanctions Reagan library, stations warship, aircraft near Taiwan after Tsai-McCarthy meet “I have seen the news (about the China drills), when there were things like this in the past, before the war in Ukraine, I always just thought it’s how things are. Even now I don’t totally think that these drills will create security concerns for us, but everything that they (China) do, is to push the limits,” Lu Chi-hao, 30, told Reuters. This comes as China’s amphibious landing ship — capable of transporting troops, craft and vehicles — fired multiple rounds of artillery early Saturday in the Luoyan Bay area on the coast of Fujian province. ALSO READ | China imposes sanctions on Taiwan’s de facto ambassador to US after Tsai-McCarthy meet “We are already numb to it, because they have really said this (unification) for a long time. But I think, since we still have to go on with our lives, us Taiwanese have to remain calm,” a 25-year-old social media influencer named Johhny Lin told Reuters. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained | How people in Beijing and Taipei have reacted to China’s military drills

Personnel from 30 nations are attending the 42nd iteration of Cobra Gold, which began on February 27 and concluded on March 10. Thailand is the oldest treaty partner of the U.S. in Asia, and the two countries have had strong military and defense cooperation for over half a century.

Military exercise cobra gold concludes

The year 2022 saw dimensions of the world order changing. For many, a war in the 21st century was a distant idea but Russia changed all that in February last year and in the past 11 months, a lot has happened.

Russia and Belarus hold joint military drill

A day after launching an intercontinental ballistic missile that landed in Japan's exclusive economic zone (EEZ), North Korean leader Kim Jong-un said his country will respond to continued threats by using nuclear weapons.

A day after launching an intercontinental ballistic missile that landed in Japan's exclusive economic zone (EEZ), North Korean leader Kim Jong-un said his country will respond to continued threats by using nuclear weapons. On the same day, images of Kim with his young daughter in public for the first time were released, confirming the long-drawn rumours of her existence. “Kim Jong-un solemnly declared that if the enemies continue to pose threats...our party and government will resolutely react to nukes with nuclear weapons and to total confrontation with all-out confrontation,” reported state media Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) before adding that Kim attended the missile launch on Thursday alongside his daughter and wife. The North Korean leader was responding to USA and Japan after the two allies held joint military drills over the Sea of Japan on Friday. According to KCNA, Kim slammed the drills by calling them "aggression war drills". WATCH | North Korea missile launch: US, Allies hold emergency meet × Japanese defence ministry makes the announcement A day earlier, the Japanese defence ministry announced that Tokyo and Washington were holding a military drill in the region. "Japan Self-Defence Forces and US armed forces conducted a bilateral exercise... amid an increasingly severe security environment surrounding Japan," read the official statement. Read more: Japan, United States hold military drills right after North Korea's ICBM launch The statement added that the drill was a reaction to "North Korea's ICBM-class ballistic missile launch that landed within the Japanese Exclusive Economic Zone in the Sea of Japan." The ministry added that ICBM launched was one of the longest-range weapons in North Korea's arsenal and according to reports, it is capable of carrying nuclear warheads as far as the coastal regions of the US. Read more: North Korea fires ‘unidentified ballistic missile’, says South Korea North Korea has taken a rather aggressive stance in the last few months by launching a flurry of missiles in the region. In September, Kim declared North Korea an "irreversible" nuclear state, putting the major powers across the globe on their toes. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un threatens nuclear attack, makes rare appearance with daughter

The Japanese Defence Ministry announced on Friday that Japan and the United States held joint military drills over the Sea of Japan right after North Korea fired an intercontinental ballistic missile that landed in the waters within the country's exclusive economic zone (EEZ) off the northern region of Hokkaido. &nbsp;

"Japan Self-Defense Forces and US armed forces conducted a bilateral exercise... amid an increasingly severe security environment surrounding Japan," the official statement read according to Reuters.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-has-fired-suspected-icbm-seoul-says-535152">North Korea ICBM had range to hit US mainland, says Japan</a>

The statement further stated that the drill was a reaction to "North Korea's ICBM-class ballistic missile launch that landed within the Japanese Exclusive Economic Zone in the Sea of Japan".&nbsp;

The EEZ is around 200 nautical miles away from the Japanese coastline and Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said that both Japan and the US will be launching a further investigation into the matter.&nbsp;

"This bilateral exercise reaffirms the strong will between Japan and the United States to respond to any situation. The exercise also further strengthens the deterrence and response capabilities of the Japan-US Alliance", the statement said regarding the drill involving aircraft from both nations.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nord-stream-blasts-were-an-act-of-sabotage-swedish-prosecutor-says-535297">Nord Stream blasts were acts of sabotage, traces of explosives found, says Swedish prosecutor</a>

While no damages were reported on Fridayday, the South Korean defence ministry said that the ICBM was one of the longest-range weapons in North Korea's arsenal and according to reports, it can be capable of launching carrying nuclear warheads as far as the coastal regions of the US.&nbsp;

Earlier on Thursday, North Korea fired a short-range ballistic missile which prompted South Korean Defence Minister Choe Son Hui to predict "fiercer military responses" from Pyongyang in the future.&nbsp;

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The Japanese Defence Ministry announced on Friday that Japan and the United States held joint military drills over the Sea of Japan right after North Korea fired an intercontinental ballistic missile that landed in the waters within the country's exclusive economic zone (EEZ) off the northern region of Hokkaido.

The Japanese Defence Ministry announced on Friday that Japan and the United States held joint military drills over the Sea of Japan right after North Korea fired an intercontinental ballistic missile that landed in the waters within the country's exclusive economic zone (EEZ) off the northern region of Hokkaido. "Japan Self-Defense Forces and US armed forces conducted a bilateral exercise... amid an increasingly severe security environment surrounding Japan," the official statement read according to Reuters. Also read | North Korea ICBM had range to hit US mainland, says Japan The statement further stated that the drill was a reaction to "North Korea's ICBM-class ballistic missile launch that landed within the Japanese Exclusive Economic Zone in the Sea of Japan". The EEZ is around 200 nautical miles away from the Japanese coastline and Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said that both Japan and the US will be launching a further investigation into the matter. "This bilateral exercise reaffirms the strong will between Japan and the United States to respond to any situation. The exercise also further strengthens the deterrence and response capabilities of the Japan-US Alliance", the statement said regarding the drill involving aircraft from both nations. Also read | Nord Stream blasts were acts of sabotage, traces of explosives found, says Swedish prosecutor While no damages were reported on Fridayday, the South Korean defence ministry said that the ICBM was one of the longest-range weapons in North Korea's arsenal and according to reports, it can be capable of launching carrying nuclear warheads as far as the coastal regions of the US. Earlier on Thursday, North Korea fired a short-range ballistic missile which prompted South Korean Defence Minister Choe Son Hui to predict "fiercer military responses" from Pyongyang in the future.

Japan, United States hold military drills right after North Korea's ICBM launch

In light of North Korea's ongoing missile launches, the United States and Japan are conducting a combined military exercise with the American aircraft carrier Ronald Reagan in the vicinity of Japan, the Japanese defence ministry announced on Saturday.&nbsp;

On Thursday, North Korea launched two short-range ballistic missiles into the ocean with Japan as their target. The launch was the first since Pyongyang flew an intermediate-range missile over Japan on Tuesday and the sixth in the past 12 days.

"Amid an increasingly severe security environment surrounding Japan, including North Korea's repeated ballistic missile launches, Japan Self-Defence Forces and U.S. Armed Forces have been conducting a bilateral exercise," the ministry said in a statement.

The combined exercise, in which a Japanese destroyer is taking part, has been going on since October 1st, according to the announcement. It was unclear when it was supposed to end.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-mocks-kremlin-over-blast-on-key-bridge-crucial-to-russian-war-effort-523577">Ukraine mocks Kremlin over blast on 'key' bridge crucial to Russian war effort</a>

This week, joint drills between the United States and South Korea were conducted.&nbsp;

According to a statement from North Korea's state media KCNA on Saturday, the defence ministry was "taking a stern look at the development of the current situation, which is very worrisome," about the US-South Korean drills.

(with inputs from agencies)

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In light of North Korea's ongoing missile launches, the United States and Japan are conducting a combined military exercise with the American aircraft carrier Ronald Reagan in the vicinity of Japan, the Japanese defence ministry announced on Saturday.

In light of North Korea's ongoing missile launches, the United States and Japan are conducting a combined military exercise with the American aircraft carrier Ronald Reagan in the vicinity of Japan, the Japanese defence ministry announced on Saturday. On Thursday, North Korea launched two short-range ballistic missiles into the ocean with Japan as their target. The launch was the first since Pyongyang flew an intermediate-range missile over Japan on Tuesday and the sixth in the past 12 days. "Amid an increasingly severe security environment surrounding Japan, including North Korea's repeated ballistic missile launches, Japan Self-Defence Forces and U.S. Armed Forces have been conducting a bilateral exercise," the ministry said in a statement. The combined exercise, in which a Japanese destroyer is taking part, has been going on since October 1st, according to the announcement. It was unclear when it was supposed to end. Also Read: Ukraine mocks Kremlin over blast on 'key' bridge crucial to Russian war effort This week, joint drills between the United States and South Korea were conducted. According to a statement from North Korea's state media KCNA on Saturday, the defence ministry was "taking a stern look at the development of the current situation, which is very worrisome," about the US-South Korean drills. (with inputs from agencies)

US and Japan conduct joint military drill involving aircraft carrier in Sea of Japan

 In pics| Iran launches large-scale drone drills to show its ‘power’

China is conducting a campaign to weaken Taiwan on all fronts. From military drills to cyberattacks and misinformation - Beijing's latest provocations are testing Taiwan's resolve. Palki Sharma tells you more about China's campaign.

Gravitas: Inside China's operation to weaken Taiwan

While border tension remains on a knife's edge between India and China, both countries are expected to take part in Vostok (East) 2022 multi-nation military exercise scheduled to take place in Russia later this month.

While border tension remains on a knife's edge between India and China, both countries are expected to take part in Vostok (East) 2022 multi-nation military exercise scheduled to take place in Russia later this month. This will be the first major such exercise to take place since Russia invaded Ukraine. According to the Russian Defence Ministry, the exercise will take place on 13 training grounds from August 30 to September 5 in the eastern military district of the country. Apart from India and China, troops from Belarus, Mongolia and Tajikistan will also participate in the drills. However, it is not clear if the Indian and Chinese contingents will square off against each other or if host Russia will keep them engaged on different training grounds at all times. While the Chinese side has released an official confirmation of its participation, the Indian Army or ministry of external affairs is yet to release any statement. However, experts believe that it will be highly unlikely that New Delhi pulls out of its arrangement with Kremlin. “In accordance with the annual plan for cooperation between the armed forces of the two countries and the bilateral agreements, the PLA (People’s Liberation Army) will soon delegate and send part of its forces to Russia for participation in the Vostok-2022 exercise,” read the Chinese official statement. Ever since the Doklam incident took place in 2017, the relations between the two neighbouring states have deteriorated sharply. The 2020 skirmishes near Line of Actiual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh where both sides lost a handful of their soldiers didn't help the matters either. Read more: India presses for disengagement in eastern Ladakh at military talks with China Since then, there has been a limbo of sorts with more than a dozen military level of talks yielding no result. Following the clashes, both sides have started to deploy more and more forces in the eastern Ladakh region and currently, both have around 50,000 to 60,000 troops posted along the LAC. Read More: Two years into India-China clash in Galwan valley, much remains unsolved However, this is not the first time that the troops of two countries will be in the same military drill. Last year, India attended Exercise ZAPAD 2021 in Russia in which 17 countries including China and Pakistan took part. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Amid border tension, India and China to attend military exercise hosted by Russia

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Russia is planning to hold big military exercise in the east thousands of miles away from where war in Ukraine is raging. The military exercise is planned for next month. The 'Vostok' exercises are slated to take place from August 30 to September 5.

They appear intended to send a message that Russia, despite the costly five-month war in Ukraine, remains focused on the defence of its entire territory and capable in military terms of sustaining "business as usual".

Russian military has emphasised in a statement that its capacity to hold drills remains unaffected. The statement said that no training activity had been cancelled and all necessary personnel, equipment and weapons will be supplied for the exercise.

"We draw your attention to the fact that only a part of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation is involved in the special military operation (in Ukraine), the number of which is quite sufficient to fulfil all the tasks set by the Supreme Commander-in-Chief," the statement said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/russia-says-it-will-quit-iss-after-2024-shows-plans-of-new-station-500883">Russia says it will quit ISS after 2024, shows plans of 'new station'</a>

Some foreign media were spreading false information about "some kind of alleged mobilisation activities", it added.

After its invasion of Ukraine on February 24, Russia has suffered heavy losses and it progress has been slow. However, Russian President Vladimir Putin has not ordered mobilisation of reserves. The reserves are estimated to include 2 million people.

CIA Director William Burns has said that about 15,000 Russian troops had been killed in Ukraine conflict. This is as many deaths as the Soviet army suffered during its decade-long occupation of Afghanistan in late seventies and eighties.

The upcoming military exercises have been planned to take place in the eastern military district. This includes part of Siberia. Headquarters of the eastern military district are in Khabarovsk, near the Chinese border.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

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Russia is planning to hold big military exercise in the east thousands of miles away from where war in Ukraine is raging. The military exercise is planned for next month.

Russia is planning to hold big military exercise in the east thousands of miles away from where war in Ukraine is raging. The military exercise is planned for next month. The 'Vostok' exercises are slated to take place from August 30 to September 5. They appear intended to send a message that Russia, despite the costly five-month war in Ukraine, remains focused on the defence of its entire territory and capable in military terms of sustaining "business as usual". Russian military has emphasised in a statement that its capacity to hold drills remains unaffected. The statement said that no training activity had been cancelled and all necessary personnel, equipment and weapons will be supplied for the exercise. "We draw your attention to the fact that only a part of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation is involved in the special military operation (in Ukraine), the number of which is quite sufficient to fulfil all the tasks set by the Supreme Commander-in-Chief," the statement said. Also Read | Russia says it will quit ISS after 2024, shows plans of 'new station' Some foreign media were spreading false information about "some kind of alleged mobilisation activities", it added. After its invasion of Ukraine on February 24, Russia has suffered heavy losses and it progress has been slow. However, Russian President Vladimir Putin has not ordered mobilisation of reserves. The reserves are estimated to include 2 million people. CIA Director William Burns has said that about 15,000 Russian troops had been killed in Ukraine conflict. This is as many deaths as the Soviet army suffered during its decade-long occupation of Afghanistan in late seventies and eighties. The upcoming military exercises have been planned to take place in the eastern military district. This includes part of Siberia. Headquarters of the eastern military district are in Khabarovsk, near the Chinese border. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Russia plans big military drills in the east next month

Russia and Belarus have kicked off a massive military drill along Ukraine's northern border. NATO believes the drills could be a pretext for Russia to invade Ukraine. Amid military drills and manoeuvres, is the window for diplomacy shrinking? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas Ukraine Direct: Russia-Belarus joint drills kick off

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