PLA fully capable of crushing secessionist attempts

The all-dimensional deployment refers to the PLA implementing an omnidirectional blockade from the air, on the surface, and underwater. The systematic containment and control, meanwhile, entails a joint operational system involving the army, navy, air force, and rocket force troops to seal off the surrounding maritime and airspace. Together, these measures leave no blind spots or gaps around the island, making it impossible for "Taiwan independence" separatist forces to escape.

Once the PLA completes its all-dimensional deployment around Taiwan, it will deter and counter external forces seeking to provide support to "Taiwan independence" separatists. This approach both tightly contains separatist forces within the island and effectively blocks external interference aimed at backing separatist activities.

Following the start of the drills, the PLA Eastern Theater Command released a themed poster titled "Shield of Justice, Smashing Illusion". The poster features two massive shields engraved with the pattern of the Great Wall and the PLA emblem that are planted in the waters off the northeastern and southeastern coasts of Taiwan island respectively. Two container cargo ships bound for Taiwan island and carrying weapons have turned back, three transport aircraft have flown back, and three submarines have been intercepted underwater.

The symbolism of the design is clear: it signals the determination to prevent vessels transporting weapons such as HIMARS systems, as well as aircraft carrying other military equipment, from reaching Taiwan. It represents concrete measures taken by the PLA to stop external forces from supplying arms to "Taiwan independence" separatists, while deterring and driving away foreign military forces that support separatist activities.

The deployment will cut off the illusion that "Taiwan independence" forces can seek "independence" by relying on foreign backing or fleeing the island in times of crisis. It will also sever the dangerous intentions of external forces attempting to stir up trouble in the Taiwan Strait by supporting separatist agendas.

Zhang Junshe, a former researcher at the PLA's Naval Research Academy.

The views don't necessarily reflect those of China Daily.

If you have a specific expertise, or would like to share your thought about our stories, then send us your writings at opinion@chinadaily.com.cn, and comment@chinadaily.com.cn.