Taipei: The 2025 Han Kuang military exercises, recognized as the longest-running in the history of these annual drills, have received commendations for their realistic combat training, increased troop visibility, and the introduction of new military equipment, despite some minor incidents during the 10-day exercises.

According to Focus Taiwan, Chieh Chung, an adjunct researcher at the Institute for National Defense and Security Research, noted a significant improvement in training intensity and public engagement. Historically, many Taiwanese viewed conscription or refresher programs as inefficient due to poor organization and limited resources. However, this year, service members found the training to be physically demanding yet purposeful, focusing on mission-based combat tasks such as close-quarters fighting and multi-round blank firing.

During a visit to the Army's 206th Infantry Brigade on July 11, Chieh was particularly impressed by the reservists' performance in a combat-readiness drill. Despite heavy rain, troops remained focused and disciplined throughout the day, even conducting an after-action review. Chieh's observations suggest that government reforms in refresher programs are effectively preparing civilians for combat readiness.

Chieh also highlighted the inclusion of over 100 disclosed training scenarios conducted in actual wartime mission areas, enhancing realism and allowing public observation. As China increases military pressure on Taiwan, these exercises have helped reassure the public and strengthen national defense sentiments. Despite several traffic accidents involving military vehicles, public support for the military remains robust.

Lin Ying-yu, an associate professor at Tamkang University's Graduate Institute of International Affairs and Strategic Studies, echoed the positive sentiment regarding the drills. Both the public and reservists felt the training was substantive and not merely procedural, partly due to military changes and heightened awareness of regional threats. However, Lin cautioned that areas like drone warfare require further attention in training to address evolving threats.

Lin emphasized that Taiwan's defense capabilities rely on more than just increased spending, as demonstrated by information security training and drills involving military police, which play crucial roles in enhancing national resilience without being part of the defense budget.

In addition to expert feedback, online discussions following the live-fire exercises from July 9-18 were notably positive. Reservists shared their experiences on social media, highlighting changes in training approaches that focused on combat fundamentals.

During the nationwide military exercises, incidents such as a light tactical vehicle crash in Kaohsiung's Qishan District and a stuck Patriot missile transporter in New Taipei were reported. Despite these incidents, the exercises overall were deemed successful in advancing Taiwan's defense readiness.