Taipei: Air Force exercises on Taiwan’s east coast were cancelled on Tuesday due to Typhoon Gaemi’s landfall, although naval and army exercises will continue in other parts of the self-governing democratic island. The Air Force’s Fifth ‘Tactical Mixed Wing’ announced the cancellation of the exercise citing adverse weather. According to the Central Weather Bureau, Typhoon ‘Gami’ is moving west of Taiwan towards China after bringing moderate floods on the east coast. At present, there has been no major damage to major cities like Kaohsiung, Tainan, Taichung and the capital Taipei due to the storm.
There will be changes due to weather
Military spokesman Sun Li-fung said the annual Han Kuang military exercise will continue with adjustments to ensure the safety of personnel and equipment, although some maritime and air exercises will be changed due to the weather. This year’s exercises are taking place during the Democratic Progressive Party’s nearly decade in power. The party has rejected Beijing’s demand to recognize Taiwan as Chinese territory.
Taiwan’s military has been dependent on the US
Taiwan’s military has long been dependent on US support, but in recent years it has revived its domestic weapons industry. Taiwan has produced submarines and training aircraft, complementing advanced weapons systems purchased from abroad. China has always had a suspicious eye on Taiwan. China considers Taiwan as its part and in recent times it has also conducted military exercises in sea areas very close to Taiwan.
