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Taiwan tensions

Taiwan starts annual defense drills with emphasis on realistic combat

New administration revamps exercises as China cranks up pressure

Soldiers handle their guns during last year's Han Kuang drills in New Taipei City, Taiwan. The Defense Ministry is seeking to make the exercises more closely resemble real-world combat scenarios.   © Reuters

TAIPEI -- Taiwan kicks off its annual military exercises on Monday, after the new defense minister implemented major changes to emphasize realistic combat scenarios over publicity stunts.

The Han Kuang exercises, held every year since 1984, put the armed forces through their paces in preparation for a possible attack by China, which claims Taiwan and has grown increasingly aggressive in recent years.

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