Taiwan's annual military exercise, Han Kuang, begins on Wednesday as the island ramps up its defence against a possible invasion from China. Billed as the largest and longest one so far, this year's Han Kuang will last for about 10 days, about twice the duration of last year's drill.

Taiwan received the initial installment of the first 11 of 29 HIMARS units it ordered last year. Taiwan tested the systems for the first time in May of this year.

This year’s 10-day live-fire Han Kuang drills are the longest yet and follow the delivery of a range of new weaponry from tanks to waterborne drones. The drills in Taiwan come as regional tensions and harassment by China and its People’s Liberation Army (PLA) are increasing.

Australia will not pre-commit troops to any conflict, safeguarding its sovereignty amidst tensions over Taiwan, Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy affirmed. This comes as the U.S. seeks clarity on ally roles amidst its strategic repositioning in the Indo-Pacific,

Taiwan has conducted its first urban resilience exercise. Residents of three cities practiced how to evacuate and seek shelter during an air raid, including while out shopping for groceries. Correction: While the Taipei civil defense exercise will take place on July 17,

Taiwan launched its largest ever military drills on Wednesday, starting with simulated attacks on its command systems and infrastructure ahead of a Chinese invasion, senior defence officials said.

China claims Taiwan as its own despite Taipei's objections. The United States does not recognize Taiwan's statehood but has political and economic stakes in a peaceful resolution to the decades-long dispute, and is obliged by U.S. law to help Taipei arm itself against a possible attack.

The drills began with exercises to counter the actions of Chinese Coast Guard and maritime militia ships that have been harassing Taiwanese ships around offshore island groups close to the Chinese coast,