Air-raid sirens blared in Taipei and other cities in northern Taiwan on Thursday, part of annual drills testing the country’s response to a potential invasion by China.

Police stopped personal vehicles and public buses and directed pedestrians into shelters, such as basements and subway stations.

Some shops and restaurants pulled down shutters and turned off lights, moves aimed to reduce their visibility during a potential nighttime attack.

The drills also involved simulating wartime aid distribution and a mass-casualty event.

Earlier this week, Taiwanese forces held their largest-ever military drills, which included simulating a response to an amphibious invasion of the Penghu Islands.

Troops fired Javelin missiles, machine guns and tank rounds at maritime targets.

Taiwanese forces also conducted maritime drills around the Matsu Islands involving speed boats, drones and mortars. Soldiers fired from rubber speed boats and positions on shore, responding to a simulated “grey zone harassment” of the islands by Chinese Coast Guard and fishing vessels.

In an early morning drill, Taiwan’s military police used Taipei’s subway system as it simulated the redeployment of troops and supplies.

Taiwan’s military also practiced securing and defending a major bridge in Taipei. This time they were firing blanks.

Taiwanese military officials said the Han Kuang drills replicate full combat conditions, including simulated enemy attacks on communications and command systems and a full-blown invasion scenario. [RFA/VP]