Taiwan Coast Guard, Military Drill To Better Face China’s ‘Grey Zone’ Threat

According to a recent report from Reuters, TaiwanS coast guard conducted joint exercises with the military on June 8 in Kaohsiung. This initiative aims to enhance their collaborative response amid increasing “gray zone” threats from China, which asserts its claim over the island. Taiwan has voiced concerns about various aggressive tactics employed by China, such as cutting undersea cables and dredging sand around its waters—actions intended to exert pressure without direct conflict.

During these drills, overseen by President Lai Ching-te, participants simulated a scenario involving the hijacking of a ferry by supposed “international terrorists.” The coast guard coordinated efforts with rescue helicopters from the interior ministry and army medevac units to regain control of the vessel and assist any injured individuals. Notably, this marked the first instance where navy anti-submarine helicopters flew alongside medevac and rescue choppers during such an exercise.

Lai emphasized that Taiwan is continuously facing incursions from China but praised the coast guard for their proactive role in maintaining law and order while ensuring public safety. He assured attendees—including Neil Gibson, a senior U.S. diplomat—that his administration would bolster inter-departmental cooperation to enhance national security and uphold Taiwan’s democratic values.

In times of heightened tensions with China,Taiwan’s coast guard often finds itself at the forefront of maritime defense operations. They routinely monitor chinese vessels during military drills near Taiwanese waters. Currently undergoing modernization efforts similar to those seen in other naval forces worldwide, Taiwan’s coast guard is expanding its capabilities significantly.

The introduction of anping-class corvettes as 2020 exemplifies this modernization drive; these advanced stealth ships are designed for agility and effectiveness against larger adversaries close to shorelines. Equipped with launchers for domestically produced Hsiung Feng missiles—both anti-ship and land-attack variants—these vessels also feature enhancements for search-and-rescue missions.

Taiwan firmly rejects Beijing’s claims over its sovereignty, asserting that only its citizens have the authority to determine their future direction amidst ongoing geopolitical challenges.