Taiwan Justice Mission 2025 Drills and the Crucial 2026 Pivot

The rockets flew while the New Year's bells rang. China launched its massive 'Justice Mission 2025' military exercises around Taiwan on December 31, 2025, signaling a turbulent start to the new year. President Lai Ching-te responded with a defiant vow to bolster the island's defenses.

Impact of Taiwan Justice Mission 2025 Drills on Regional Security

According to Reuters, President Lai used his New Year's address on January 1 to call for national unity. He urged opposition parties to end a legislative deadlock and approve a $40 billion defense spending hike. The drills, which saw dozens of rockets fired toward the island, forced the cancellation of numerous commercial flights.

Beijing's maneuvers began just 11 days after the United States announced a record $11.1 billion arms package for Taipei. For the first time, China's military explicitly stated that these exercises were designed to deter 'outside intervention.'

Xi Jinping and the 2027 Readiness Deadline

Chinese President Xi Jinping reiterated that 'reunification' is inevitable. This adds weight to U.S. intelligence reports suggesting China aims to be combat-ready for a Taiwan contingency by 2027. President Lai warned that "2026 will be a crucial year for Taiwan," urging the nation to plan for the worst.