The Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) has successfully completed a series of military exercises, code-named 'Strait Thunder-2025A', in the Taiwan Straits.

Conducted over two days, these drills involved coordinated operations of land, naval, air, and rocket forces aimed at enhancing the troops' capabilities for integrated joint operations.

The exercises took place on April 2-3, 2025, featuring a range of activities, including live-fire drills and the deployment of a carrier task group.

Senior Colonel Shi Yi, spokesperson for the PLA Eastern Theater Command, reported that the exercises were designed to remain operationally effective while continuously placing troops on high alert.

The military's focus is on preventing any attempts at self-declared 'Taiwan independence.' Shi emphasized the PLA's commitment to strengthen combat readiness through intensive training.

The latest drills commenced with the assembly of military forces surrounding Taiwan from multiple directions.

The 'Strait Thunder-2025A' operations included simulated strikes on key targets and the use of live-fire rocket systems in the East China Sea.

Experts noted that these maneuvers serve a dual purpose: applying military pressure on proponents of 'Taiwan independence' and undermining the political strategies of Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP).

The ongoing exercises are described by military analysts as increasingly comprehensive and capable, marking a shift in PLA operational tactics.

According to military experts, this evolution is apparent in the strategic positioning of PLA forces during the drills, which simulate blockades and strikes designed to encircle Taiwan and deter any secessionist ambitions.

Shi reported that the exercises involved complex scenarios focused on identification, verification, warning, and interception, testing the PLA's capability for area control and precision strikes.

The drills culminated in the deployment of the Shandong aircraft carrier task group, which conducted operations to secure maritime and air superiority in the vicinity of Taiwan, while integrating operations with naval and air units.

The presence of the carrier group is posited to constrain essential supply routes for the island, effectively cutting off the energy and support lifelines of any separatist factions.

Both military leaders and analysts underscored the message sent during the exercises, highlighting that ongoing PLA military readiness originates from a perspective of safeguarding national sovereignty and security.

International reactions have followed the exercises, with various countries, including the United States and members of the European Union, expressing concerns regarding military provocations and stability in the region.

The PLA's activities have faced criticism, suggesting a unilateral alteration of the status quo regarding Taiwan.

However, Chinese officials have firmly rebuffed these criticisms, calling them unjust and a mischaracterization of China’s internal affairs.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry maintains that matters concerning Taiwan are strictly domestic issues and that external governments should refrain from interfering.

Spokespersons for both the Ministry of National Defense and the Taiwan Affairs Office have reiterated the necessity of these military drills as actions aimed at maintaining sovereignty and countering separatist activities.

Analysts noted a shift in operational unpredictability during these drills, which could potentially impose psychological stress on those advocating for Taiwan's independence, showcasing the PLA's adaptability and readiness in an increasingly complex security environment.

Reports from local Taiwanese media indicated immediate maritime disruptions, exemplifying the drills’ impact on operational logistics and the broader geopolitical atmosphere surrounding Taiwan.