China Launches Large-Scale Joint Military Exercise 'Lianjian 2024B' in Eastern Theater

The "Joint Sword 2024B" exercise, also referred to as "", is a major military drill conducted by the Eastern Theater Command of the People's Liberation Army (PLA), one of China's five military theater commands. The Eastern Theater Command, which was established in 2016 as part of a significant restructuring of the PLA, is responsible for military operations in the Shanghai and Nanjing Military Regions, covering the provinces of Anhui, Fujian, Jiangsu, Jiangxi, Shanghai, and Zhejiang.

This year's exercise is the latest in a series of joint military drills conducted by the PLA in recent years, aimed at enhancing its combat readiness and interoperability among different branches of the military. The Joint Sword series of exercises, in particular, focuses on joint operations involving the PLA's ground, naval, air, and missile forces, as well as other specialized units such as cyber and electronic warfare troops.

The exercise comes at a time of heightened tensions in the Asia-Pacific region, with China's military modernization and expansion efforts drawing attention from neighboring countries and the United States. The PLA's increasing emphasis on joint operations and far-sea capabilities has raised concerns about its ability to project power beyond its borders and potentially challenge regional security dynamics.

The specific goals and objectives of the Joint Sword 2024B exercise have not been publicly disclosed, but analysts expect it to involve advanced military technologies and tactics, including the use of stealth fighters, hypersonic missiles, and cyber warfare capabilities. The exercise is likely to be closely watched by regional militaries and defense experts, who will be looking for signs of the PLA's growing military capabilities and its ability to coordinate complex, joint operations.

According to official reports, the Eastern Theater Command of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) launched the Joint Sword 2024B exercise on [date] in the East China Sea. The exercise, which is part of the PLA's annual training schedule, aimed to test the military's joint combat capabilities and readiness in a complex electromagnetic environment.

The exercise involved various branches of the PLA, including the army, navy, air force, and rocket force, as well as other support units. The drills focused on joint operations, including amphibious landings, airborne assaults, and missile strikes. During the exercise, PLA forces practiced coordinated attacks on mock enemy targets, including ships, aircraft, and ground installations. The drills also included electronic warfare and cyber warfare components, simulating the disruption of enemy command and control systems.

The exercise was conducted in a highly realistic and dynamic environment, with multiple scenarios and variables designed to test the PLA's ability to adapt and respond to changing situations. The drills were overseen by senior PLA officers, who evaluated the performance of participating units and provided feedback on areas for improvement.

The Joint Sword 2024B exercise has sent ripples throughout the region, with many in Taiwan and neighboring countries expressing concern over the potential escalation of tensions. The military drills, which have been described as some of the largest and most complex in recent years, have raised fears over the safety of air and sea traffic in the area.

In Taiwan, many residents have taken to social media to express their anxiety over the situation, with some calling for increased vigilance and preparedness in the face of what they see as a growing threat. Others have criticized the exercise as a provocative move by the Chinese military, designed to intimidate and undermine the island's sovereignty.

The exercise has also had an impact on regional trade and commerce, with some shipping and aviation companies rerouting their vessels and flights to avoid the affected areas. This has led to concerns over potential disruptions to supply chains and the regional economy as a whole.

In mainland China, the exercise has been touted as a demonstration of the country's military strength and determination to defend its territorial integrity. State media outlets have been quick to emphasize the significance of the exercise, with many analysts hailing it as a major show of force in the region.

However, not all have been impressed, with some critics arguing that the exercise is a costly and unnecessary demonstration of military might. Others have expressed concern over the potential environmental impact of the exercise, with many worried about the effects of large-scale military activity on marine ecosystems.

As the exercise continues, it remains to be seen how the situation will unfold and what the lasting impact will be on regional relations and stability.