Taiwan began its annual "Han Kuang" military exercises on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, as the island democracy prepares for a potential Chinese invasion. The 10-day drills, running through August 14, involve troops, reservists, and civilians in combat scenarios, air raid drills, and simulated communications disruptions. China, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory, has intensified military pressure in recent years, deploying fighter jets and warships around the island almost daily and conducting large-scale exercises.