While inspecting PLAN forces of the Southern Theater Command on Tuesday, President Xi Jinping called for China to “strengthen military training oriented towards actual combat,” as well as a “boost” in force modernization “on all fronts,” according to state media.
The statements came after Chinese forces wrapped up its “Joint Sword” military exercises, which saw over 230 aircraft and dozens of naval vessels carry out operations and simulated strike missions around Taiwan. The drills, some of the largest seen to date, were in an apparent response to Taiwan president Tsai Ing-wen’s visit to the United States.
