Taiwan Demonstrates Missile Capabilities Amid Rising Tensions With China

Taiwan displayed its missile capabilities on Tuesday, conducting live-fire tests of surface-to-air missiles at a remote site on the island’s southeastern coast. This demonstration took place at the Jiupeng base in Pingtung County, a significant test location for the island’s defense systems.

During the drills, Taiwan’s military launched both US-made Patriot missiles and domestically-developed Sky Bow III missiles at dawn. Additionally, a warship stationed offshore fired RIM-66 Standard missiles. The successful test firings aimed to showcase the effectiveness of Taiwan’s defense systems and the readiness of its armed forces.

Defense Ministry spokesperson Sun Li-fang praised the operation, stating, “All the missiles fired today hit their targets successfully, proving both the training of our soldiers and the reliability of our weapons systems.”

Jiupeng base is also known for testing advanced missile systems, including the longer-range Hsiung Feng missile designed to strike targets deep within China. Taiwan’s government continues to assert its sovereignty and reject China’s claims over the island, emphasizing that only the people of Taiwan can determine their future.