Typhoon Gaemi Halts Air Force Drills in Taiwan Amid Rising Tensions

Typhoon Gaemi's arrival forced Taiwan's Air Force to cancel drills, but naval and land exercises continue. Despite the moderate flooding, major cities were largely unaffected. Adjustments were made to ensure safety during the Han Kuang military exercises, which follow the election of President Lai Cheng-te, rejecting Beijing's territorial claims.

The arrival of Typhoon Gaemi has prompted the cancellation of air force drills off Taiwan's east coast on Tuesday. This decision was made by the Air Force 5th Tactical Mixed Wing due to adverse weather conditions.

Despite the weather, naval and land exercises are set to continue in other parts of the self-governing island democracy, which faces threats of invasion from China. The Central Weather Bureau reported that Typhoon Kaemi is moving westward towards China after causing moderate flooding in Taiwan's east coast. However, major cities like Kaosiung, Tainan, Taichung, and Taipei were spared from significant damage.

Military spokesperson Sun Li-fang confirmed that the annual Han Kuang military exercises will proceed with necessary adjustments to ensure the safety of personnel and equipment. Some sea and air exercises will be altered due to weather conditions. These drills follow the election of President Lai Cheng-te, who continues the Democratic Progressive Party’s near-decade in power, rejecting Beijing's demands to recognize Taiwan as a Chinese territory. Although Taiwan's military has traditionally relied on U.S. support, recent years have seen a revitalization of its domestic arms industry.