The Immediate Combat Readiness Exercises, announced by Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense on Sunday, focus on assessing how quickly military units can mobilize and respond to potential threats, particularly in scenarios involving sudden escalation short of open conflict.

In Taoyuan, home to Taiwan’s largest international airport and a strategically important transportation hub, tanks and armored vehicles from the Army’s 269th Infantry Brigade were deployed on city streets and highways as part of combat readiness patrols, according to images and footage released by military authorities.

Taiwan’s defense ministry said the drills emphasize realistic operational conditions, including live-fire elements and real-time decision-making. The exercises are intended to simulate military responses during the critical period preceding a potential hostile assault.

According to Taiwan’s semi-official Central News Agency, the drills are structured to evaluate the military’s ability to react swiftly before an adversary launches amphibious or air operations. Authorities indicated that additional unscheduled exercises could be conducted in the future to test immediate responses to evolving security situations.

The drills come amid continued military activity by China around Taiwan. Taiwan’s defense ministry reported that 23 Chinese military aircraft, seven naval vessels and five government-operated ships were detected operating near the island between Sunday and Monday.

China regularly deploys warplanes, naval vessels and drones near Taiwan in what Taipei describes as pressure tactics intended to wear down the island’s defenses and signal Beijing’s territorial claims.

Grey-zone operations, which have become a central feature of cross-strait tensions, encompass activities such as military patrols, air incursions, maritime presence and drone operations that fall below the threshold of direct armed conflict but are designed to exert strategic pressure.

Beijing considers Taiwan part of its territory and has repeatedly stated that reunification remains a national objective. Chinese authorities have not ruled out the use of force to achieve that goal.

Taiwan, which operates as a self-governing democracy, has increasingly focused on strengthening its defense posture through expanded training programs, weapons modernization and civil defense preparations. Earlier this month, Taiwanese forces conducted a military exercise that included firing rockets toward waters facing China, marking a notable demonstration of defensive capabilities.

The latest readiness drills underscore Taipei’s efforts to improve rapid-response capabilities as military activity around the Taiwan Strait continues to intensify.

This large-scale military drill highlights the Kingdom’s dedication to improving combat readiness, enhancing operational coordination, and fostering defense partnerships with allied nations.

The ATLC-35 exercise is recognized as one of the region’s most advanced and strategic air and missile defense training operations.

Its primary goal is to simulate realistic combat environments, strengthen tactical planning, and test the interoperability of forces from different countries.

The participation of Saudi Arabia underscores its continuous efforts to build modern, efficient, and cooperative defense capabilities.

The Royal Saudi Air Force is actively taking part with Tornado fighter aircraft, conducting a wide range of missions that include defensive and offensive operations, combat search and rescue, aerial refueling, and night flying exercises.

These drills are designed to enhance precision, coordination, and rapid response under complex battle conditions — essential skills in ensuring national and regional security.

Similarly, the Royal Saudi Air Defense Force plays a crucial role in this joint exercise, focusing on missile defense systems, airspace monitoring, and intercept operations.

By engaging in these integrated drills, Saudi forces are refining their strategic capabilities to detect, track, and neutralize airborne threats effectively.

The ATLC-35 exercise also provides a valuable opportunity for the Kingdom to share expertise with partner nations, exchange tactical knowledge, and develop joint operational strategies.

These collaborations help participating countries achieve a higher level of military integration and trust, reinforcing stability and collective defense across the region.

Saudi Arabia’s involvement in this advanced training operation reflects the Kingdom’s broader defense vision under Vision 2030, which emphasizes strengthening national capabilities and enhancing regional partnerships.

The initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s goal of becoming a leader in technological innovation, defense modernization, and international cooperation.

By taking part in multinational exercises like ATLC-35, the Kingdom showcases its readiness to contribute to peace, security, and stability both regionally and globally.

These exercises not only improve tactical efficiency but also build stronger military relationships with allied countries in the Middle East and beyond.

The ATLC-35 program represents the modern face of military training — one that combines cutting-edge technology, strategic coordination, and joint decision-making.

Through this, Saudi pilots, engineers, and defense specialists gain invaluable experience working alongside world-class forces, preparing them for a wide range of future missions.

Beyond technical training, the exercise emphasizes cooperation, mutual understanding, and the spirit of alliance.

It allows Saudi personnel to engage in real-time simulations that enhance decision-making under pressure and adaptability in complex scenarios.

These skills are critical in maintaining a strong and capable defense force ready to face modern challenges.

The Kingdom’s active participation in such exercises sends a strong message of unity and preparedness. It reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to defending its interests while supporting collective regional defense efforts.

By continually enhancing its forces’ skills and capabilities, the Kingdom is ensuring that peace and security remain top priorities in an increasingly dynamic world.

The ATLC-35 exercise in the UAE stands as another milestone in Saudi Arabia’s defense achievements — a testament to the Kingdom’s growing strength, strategic vision, and dedication to global peace through cooperation and readiness.