MNA

At midnight, while civilians were asleep, trainees of the ROC Army’s “Amphibious Reconnaissance Reserve Training Class 161” sprang into action at 0300 hours today, alerted by the sound of firecrackers. Five trainees swiftly assembled with high spirits at the Liaoluo Training Area and surrounding training grounds to commence a rigorous three-day, two-night ordeal, commonly known as “Hell Week.” On the first day of the final assessment, the trainees began with intensive calisthenics warm-ups before gearing up and setting out, carrying 35 kilograms of equipment to complete a 10-kilometer march within two hours. This tested not only their physical strength and endurance but also posed a significant challenge to their willpower. During the march, instructors periodically issued special scenarios, evaluating the trainees’ mental resilience, judgment, and other critical skills. After completing the loaded march, the trainees proceeded to Liaoluo Wharf to undergo tests such as coastal infiltration. They boarded Sea Dragon boats, disembarked 500 meters from shore, and switched to armed swimming to reach land. They executed continuous tactical maneuvers, including reconnaissance, diamond formation searches, and wet-to-dry transitions, advancing toward the target area while demonstrating exceptional teamwork among comrades.

The ROC Army’s 2025 “Precision Missile Firing—Eagle Strike Exercise” commenced yesterday (July 14) in the southern region. On the first day, units including the Army Aviation 601st and 602nd Brigades and the Flight Training Command participated, deploying AH-64E and AH-1W attack helicopters and OH-58D reconnaissance helicopters equipped with Hellfire missiles to engage maritime targets, verifying the routine training outcomes and battlefield adaptability of Army Aviation personnel. Yesterday’s exercise included daytime live-fire shooting and scheduled nighttime operations. In low-visibility conditions, pilots utilized night vision equipment to precisely lock onto maritime targets. After launching Hellfire missiles, the missiles’ tail flames trailed light, piercing the night sky and tracing brilliant arcs in the air, accompanied by explosive sounds as the missiles accurately struck their targets. Subsequently, pilots deployed flares and executed tactical disengagement. Through nighttime live-fire shooting, pilots gained practical combat experience while demonstrating the Army Aviation units’ all-weather combat and nighttime firing capabilities. The “Eagle Strike Exercise” is a key annual firing training for the ROC Army, designed to train pilots in independent decision-making under various scenarios, test on-the-spot reactions and target acquisition, enhance proficiency in combat procedures, strengthen formation coordination and fire control capabilities, and verify routine training outcomes to bolster overall combat capabilities.

To validate training effectiveness, the Army conducted the 2025 Precision Missile Firing Training at Jiupeng Base in Pingtung today. In the morning, live-fire exercises of the Thunderbolt 2000 Multiple Rocket System were carried out, while in the afternoon, media were invited to observe the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) firing, showcasing the Army artillery’s superior strike capabilities and training outcomes through media coverage. This morning, personnel from the rocket companies of the Army’s 21st, 58th, and 43rd Artillery Command, as well as units from the Kinmen Defense Command, Matsu Defense Command, and the 2nd Training Company of the Artillery Training Command, conducted the “Thunderbolt” exercise, simulating countering enemy landings by firing at sea targets to validate the training effectiveness of the troops. In the afternoon, the 58th Artillery Command conducted live-fire exercises with the HIMARS, demonstrating its high mobility and precision strike capabilities to the public through media coverage, highlighting the ROC Armed Forces’ firepower and military readiness achievements. The Army Command stated that the HIMARS is a high-mobility rocket launch platform procured from the United States, equipped with rapid deployment and precision strike capabilities. The first batch of 11 HIMARS units, acquired from the U.S., arrived last year and is currently undergoing integration training by the Army’s 58th Artillery Command. The Army Command noted that this firing exercise, aligned with the “Annual Precision Missile Firing Exercise,” verified the integration training effectiveness of the HIMARS. During the exercise, participating personnel demonstrated high professionalism and coordination, successfully completing the firing mission and accumulating valuable firing experience, achieving the goal of enhancing combat readiness.

The National Defense University held its “119th Anniversary Art Exhibition” today, presided over by President General Liu Chih-Pin. The event, themed “Myriad Forms from a Single Sheet,” invited Teacher Tu Ching-Hsiang, renowned for his “exquisite paper carving craftsmanship,” to exhibit his works, aiming to promote arts and cultural education, enhance the humanistic and artistic cultivation of faculty and students, and collectively celebrate the significant milestone of the university’s anniversary. In his opening remarks, President Liu stated that Teacher Tu, a graduate of the Political Warfare College Class of 1986, has continued to engage in artistic creation after retiring from military service, participating in numerous national and regional art exhibitions in Taipei, Kaohsiung, and Tainan, where he consistently achieved outstanding results. His oil painting Ballerina is notably included in the collection of the Taipei Fine Arts Museum. Beyond painting, Teacher Tu’s paper art creations are renowned for their “single-sheet formation” origami technique, requiring no splicing or gluing, and through meticulous design and patient carving, the paper is imbued with vitality, showcasing a unique artistic aesthetic. President Liu noted that Teacher Tu’s creations encompass diverse themes, including human figures, animals, birds, and insects, fully demonstrating the richness and intricacy of paper carving art. Last year, Teacher Tu was invited to serve as the lead designer for the main lantern City of Radiant Dragons at the Taipei Lantern Festival. This work combined paper art with metal materials, integrating elements of Ximending’s film and Taiwanese opera culture, presenting an artistic style that blends cultural heritage with innovation, and receiving enthusiastic acclaim from the public upon its display. President Liu expressed gratitude to Teacher Tu Ching-Hsiang for his enthusiastic assistance in organizing this exhibition and thanked all faculty and students for their active participation, collectively adding artistic brilliance to the anniversary celebrations and showcasing the National Defense University’s dedication and efforts in arts education and cultural preservation. The “Myriad Forms from a Single Sheet” art exhibition specially features Teacher Tu’s most representative and distinctive works, compiling the essence of his years of paper carving creations to vividly present the lifelike forms of all things, aiming to broaden viewers’ perspectives and appreciation of paper carving art and guide faculty and students to experience its beauty.

Lieutenant General Chen, Yu-Lin, Director General of the Political Warfare Bureau at the Ministry of National Defense (MND), met today with personnel who obtained their Social Worker Licenses in the first half of 2025. She praised their efforts and achievements in advancing professional skills and enhancing the psychological counseling capabilities within the R.O.C. Armed Forces, encouraged them to continue pursuing lifelong learning to further strengthen the mental health support capacity in military. In the morning, Director General Chen presented awards to recognize four service members who obtained their Social Worker Licenses in the first half of this year: Lieutenant Colonel Wu, Chia-Rung, Major Ku, Hsin-Chi, Captain Liu, Po-Tao, and Captain Lu, Kuan-Hung. She commended their dedication and hard work throughout the certification process, noting their profession and a strong passion for psychological counseling work. Director General Chen stated that, to effectively address the psychological counseling needs of military personnel, the MND launched the “Military Mental Health Care Program” in recent years. This initiative adopts the method of “self-booking without referral”, allowing service members to directly seek assistance from civilian mental health counseling providers without going through their unit or the military’s Mental Health Center for assessment or coordination. Under this program, everyone is entitled to six free counseling sessions per year. Since its launch in mid-February this year, over 1,200 service members have utilized the service, demonstrating its tangible benefits for the well-being of military personnel. Director General Chen encouraged the newly certified individuals to maintain their enthusiasm for learning after obtaining licenses. She urged them to continue gaining social experience and refining the psychological support capabilities of the R.O.C. Armed Forces. When taking on frontline roles in counseling work, they should provide timely feedback and sharing insights that could benefit the well-being of primary level personnel, which is vital for helping relevant departments develop effective, supportive policies and truly implement comprehensive care for service members. In addition, to encourage psychological counselors within the R.O.C. Armed Forces to enhance their professional knowledge and capabilities, the Fu Hsing Kang College, National Defense University, in collaboration with the Political Warfare Education and Training Center of the MND, has been jointly organizing the “Counseling Psychologist and Social Worker License Training Program” since 2018. This program aims to support military counseling personnel in obtaining certifications as licensed counseling psychologists and social workers—and has achieved remarkable results.

To honor and encourage the efforts of service members stationed in remote areas, Honorary Chairman of the Friends of Armed Forces Association, Lee, Tung-Liang, visited garrisoned troops in the northern mountain regions today. He was accompanied by key military leaders, including Deputy Chief of the General Staff, Lieutenant General Chen, Deputy Commander of the Army, Lieutenant General Lee, and Deputy Director of the Political Warfare Bureau, Major General Chang. The visit aimed to express respect and appreciation on behalf of the whole society, offering warmth and encouragement to the troops through concrete action. This gesture demonstrated public support for the military and boosted the morale of those serving in isolated and challenging environments. During the visit, Honorary Chairman Lee expressed his sincere respect and gratitude to all service members for their dedication in carrying out combat readiness training despite challenging missions and limited resources. In addition to presenting consolation funds, he warmly shook hands with each soldier, inquiring about their daily life and training conditions, and commended their long-standing commitment to their duties and steadfast presence at their posts. In appreciation of his selfless dedication to the welfare of the armed forces, the military unit presented Honorary Chairman Lee with a certificate of gratitude and commemorative gifts. “I have always wanted to come see you all. You have worked so hard!” Honorary Chairman Lee acknowledged that troops stationed in remote areas often face limited resources and must endure the unpredictable mountain weather. Despite these challenges, they remain always committed to rigorous training and vigilance in safeguarding national security. Honorary Chairman Lee pledged to continue supporting the armed forces, serving as their strongest backing and most reliable source of support.

The Ministry of National Defense (MND) is holding a two-day all-out defense education campaign in collaboration with Feng Chia University today. This morning, the Army Aviation 602nd Brigade specially dispatched AH-1W SuperCobra and UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters to land at the sports field in the university, allowing the public to experience up close the powerful wind and sound of the helicopters. Through the display of military equipment, visitors of all ages were able to experience the national defense first-hand, understand it, thereupon foster support for nationwide defense. During the campaign, in addition to dynamic flight demonstrations of these two types of helicopters, various active military equipment was showcased, including the CM-32/33 Armored Vehicle, field broadcast vehicle, TOW Missile Carrier, and the field ambulance which is firstly open to public. These displays highlighted the military’s diverse mobility and rescue capabilities. At the same time, multiple interactive experience and recruitment booths were set up on-site, allowing visitors to wear combat gear, try on chemical protection suits, and participate in psychological warfare unit puzzle challenges and other mini-games. These activities provided attendees with memorable and novel experiences, helping to bridge the gap between the military and civilians. Major Chiu, the team leader responsible for the helicopter landing mission, stated that upon receiving the assignment, he immediately started the planning of all flight safety details and led his team to conduct site inspections and simulated test flights to ensure a flawless mission. This was the first time a helicopter landing was performed on the Feng Chia University campus. Major Chiu emphasized that under the premise of ensuring flight and public safety, the event also aimed to showcase the hard work and training achievements of the R.O.C. Armed Forces, with a hope that younger generation interested in serving the nation would consider joining the Armed Forces to contribute to the defense of their homeland. In addition, the "Taiwan International Model Show – Taichung Weei Cup and Science Fantasy" was held simultaneously at Feng Chia University, featuring exquisite models across 11 categories, including military vehicles, military aircraft, ships, and science fiction. The MND also established the "MND Special Prize for All-out Defense Education " to recognize participants whose creations highlight military equipment, helping to raise public awareness of the armed forces.

In response to enemy threats in recent years, the Marine Corps supported actively the Navy’s force transformation and mission adjustments. Security Battalions are established under the Air Defense & Base Guard Group, along with an Amphibious Reconnaissance and Patrol Unit, which are tasked respectively with conducting land-based security operations and carrying out maritime security missions using M109 assault boats, to ensure the smooth execution of both land and naval operations. The Security Battalion under the Air Defense & Base Guard Group of ROCMC was established at the end of last year as part of the force transformation initiative. Its mission is to provide security for land-based mobile missile crews and mobile radar crews, ensuring their mobility throughout the mission and the safety of their positions. In recent years, the Amphibious Reconnaissance and Patrol Unit has actively adapted its mission in response to enemy threats and the joint force planning directives of Ministry of National Defense (MND). With the Navy’s integration concept, the unit employs M109 assault boats to carry out maritime security missions, ensuring the successful execution of mine-laying operations and the integrity of designated minefields. Lieutenant Colonel Kuo, commander of the 1st Security Battalion under the Air Defense & Base Guard Group, explained that the battalion’s primary mission is to provide cover and protection for mobile missile and radar crews during their operations, along with route reconnaissance and position security, with most missions conducted using vehicles for mobile escort. Compared to traditional infantry, personnel must be more proficient in vehicle operation and driving, as well as possess basic troubleshooting skills to handle unexpected situations and carry out convoy tactics effectively. In addition, they must be familiar with the equipment used by the mobile crews under protection, so they can take over and complete the mission if there are casualties among escorted personnel. Lieutenant Colonel Kuo stated that in addition to basic combat skills, the unit regularly conducts scenario-based training to prepare personnel for responding to enemy threats. These responses are tested and validated during readiness patrols conducted by mobile crews, aiming to achieve a combat capability characterized by "rapid response and immediate deployment," thereby ensuring national security. The First Lieutenant Kang, a leader from the Amphibious Reconnaissance and Patrol Unit, stated that upon receiving a mine-laying security mission order, the unit will quickly assemble and deploy from port to conduct defensive mine-laying escort operations in a standby posture. Throughout the mission, they will provide full escort for mine-laying vessels between the designated minefield and the loading port. At the same time, they will seize opportunities to harass enemy obstacle-clearing ships and aerial threats, aiming to delay their actions, disrupt their attack tempo, and preserve the integrity of the minefield. The First Lieutenant Kang also noted that the M109 special operations assault boat possesses excellent maneuverability, allowing it to effectively carry out enemy suppression and counter-special forces operations. Its agility enables rapid and appropriate responses to various threat scenarios, ensuring the successful completion of missions assigned by higher command. Amid escalating enemy threats in recent years, the ROCMC continues to adapt its force structure in line with ongoing transformation efforts, adjusting missions and troop deployment accordingly. Through the Security Battalion under the Air Defense & Base Guard Group and the Amphibious Reconnaissance and Patrol Unit, the Marine Corps carries out both land and maritime security operations. These efforts ensure the safe and effective execution of mobile missile, radar crews, and mine-laying missions. By integrating rapid response and immediate deployment capabilities, the Marine Corps are ready to defend coastal waters and safeguard national security.

Deputy Commander of the Air Force, Lieutenant General Jiang Guanghua, recently visited the Air Force's Kangshan Base, accompanied by the Commander of the Flight Training Department, Major General Wu. They presided over the "Combat Group AJT Aircraft Conversion Training Flight Mission Overview." The event gathered instructors, staff members, and trainees to discuss the subsequent training plans, review the conversion training, and provide suggestions for improvement. The goal was to encourage all instructors and trainees to put in their best efforts and create a better education and training environment for the Air Force. Deputy Commander Jiang first listened to a briefing on the preparation status of the advanced trainer aircraft and the subsequent conversion training curriculum and key focus areas. He engaged with the personnel on-site, hoping to refine and improve the conversion training process. After the briefing, the instructors provided a pre-flight mission briefing for the 112th Class B Combat Group trainees and conducted a 360-degree inspection, among other procedures. Following this, under the guidance of the instructors, the first group of AJT aircraft conversion trainees successfully took to the skies and completed their first flight training, marking a new milestone. Deputy Commander Jiang expressed that it is thanks to the continuous efforts and dedication of every loyal member of the Air Force that the Republic of China Air Force has reached its current status. He extended his recognition and gratitude to the instructors and trainees for their hard work. He also encouraged everyone to put in more effort, as this would allow future Air Force trainees to receive education in a more efficient, scientific, and comfortable environment, helping them grow and become strong members dedicated to defending the nation’s airspace.

President Lai Ching-te today visited the Yuping Post Office in Tainan to observe the "2025 Nationwide Defense Resilience Committee Field Exercise: Expanding Emergency Medical Locations." During his visit, President Lai expressed his appreciation to all participants involved in the exercise and preparation efforts. He also emphasized the importance of promoting future collaboration between central and local governments, leveraging civil forces, integrating cross-regional resources, and involving communities and civil organizations in nationwide defense resilience exercises. Upon arrival, the President was briefed on the exercise’s objectives and operations, including the setup of emergency medical locations. He then proceeded to observe various field operation areas, including the medical command center, regional coordination centers, mobile police stations, triage and emergency treatment zones, advanced surgical teams, and disaster psychological health units. In his speech, President Lai noted that this exercise marks the first field drill conducted by the Nationwide Defense Resilience Committee. This scenario-based, unscripted exercise focused on "Expanding Emergency Medical Locations," with over 1,500 participants from central and local governments and private sector organizations. The President highlighted the professionalism displayed by all participants, which was a direct result of their regular training and preparedness. “Today’s success not only reflects the dedication and professionalism of all participants but also demonstrates several principles that we hope to continue promoting: first, close collaboration between central and local governments, as evidenced by the joint efforts of the Presidential Office, the Nationwide Defense Resilience Committee, and the Tainan City Government; second, the involvement of civil forces, including organizations such as the Tzu Chi Foundation, the Presbyterian Church in Taiwan, the Mustard Seed Mission and Show Ba Department Store Ltd.; third, the integration of cross-regional resources, with participation from Chiayi and Kaohsiung; and finally, the autonomous actions of community groups and volunteers, including the Huweiliao Volunteer Rescue Team, Songan Floods Community Recovery Shinan Resilience Community, Kainan Community and the Anping District,” President Lai said. He further expressed his gratitude to Premier Cho Jung-tai for leading the team, as well as Minister of the Interior Liu Shih-fang and Minister Without Portfolio Chi Lien-cheng, who served as deputy advisors for the exercise. He also acknowledged the efforts of Tainan Mayor Huang Wei-che and his city government team for their unwavering commitment. Additionally, President Lai acknowledged the crucial contributions of local medical personnel from institutions such as Chi Mei Hospital and National Cheng Kung University Hospital, along with other regional hospitals, clinics, and the involvement of volunteer police, firefighters, and traffic personnel. Since taking office, President Lai has emphasized the importance of national defense resilience, establishing the Nationwide Defense Resilience Committee at the Presidential Office. Building upon the tabletop exercise held in December 2024, today’s small-scale field drill is a key step in strengthening Taiwan’s societal resilience. Looking ahead, the government plans to conduct additional exercises in April focused on town-level preparedness, ensuring Taiwan is ready to effectively respond to natural disasters, major accidents, or potential geopolitical shifts. “As the saying goes, prevention is better than cure,’” President Lai concluded. “By preparing in advance, we can mitigate potential harm and safeguard the well-being of our citizens. Our collective efforts will ensure Taiwan's security and contribute to achieving long-term peace.” The event was also attended by senior officials, including Presidential Office Secretary-General Pan Men-an, National Security Council Secretary-General Wu Chao-hsieh, Minister of the Interior Liu Shih-fang, Minister of Foreign Affairs Joseph Wu, Tainan Mayor Huang Wei-che, and several diplomatic representatives from foreign missions in Taiwan.