On April 2nd, the Chinese People's Liberation Army conducted a highly notable live-fire exercise in the central and southern parts of the Taiwan Strait, utilizing two advanced PHL-191 multiple rocket launcher systems to fire 16 precision-guided rockets, accurately striking 8 simulated targets, including a model of the Yong'an LNG terminal in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. This energy facility is a critical node in Taiwan's energy lifeline. The exercise footage was broadcast through official media, drawing global attention and exerting unprecedented pressure on the "Taiwan independence" forces.

This exercise showcased the increasingly powerful precision strike capabilities of the PLA. As a new star in China's arsenal, the PHL-191 rocket system is mounted on an 8×8 wheeled chassis, featuring high mobility and modular design, capable of firing various munitions ranging from 370mm rockets to the DF-480 tactical ballistic missile with a range exceeding 300 miles. During the exercise, the system successfully hit multiple targets in one salvo, demonstrating remarkable accuracy依托于 satellite navigation and inertial guidance. Analysts pointed out that this capability far exceeds the saturation bombing mode of its predecessor, the PHL-03, and compared to the US High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) and Russia's Tornado, the PHL-191 stands out in firepower, range, and flexibility, making it tailor-made for regional deterrence.

The choice of simulated strike targets during this exercise carries deeper implications. The Yong'an LNG terminal in Kaohsiung, located in southwestern Taiwan near Kaohsiung Port, processes about 40% of the island's natural gas used for electricity generation, with an annual import volume exceeding 10 million tons, just 160 kilometers from the opposite shore of the strait, well within the range of the PHL-191. If this facility were destroyed in a conflict, Taiwan would face power outages, industrial shutdowns, and even a significant weakening of its military defense capabilities. This exercise not only demonstrates technical capabilities but also directly threatens Taiwan's economic lifelines, indicating that the PLA has incorporated the paralysis of key infrastructure within its operational plans. In previous programs, we have repeatedly mentioned that tasks previously completed by the Rocket Force can now be accomplished by Army Group Armies, elevating the status of the Army in preparing for military confrontations across the Taiwan Strait.

In addition, the timing and intent of this exercise are equally intriguing. At a time when cross-strait relations remain tense, this move is seen as a "stern warning and strong deterrence against Taiwan independence separatist forces." Senior PLA spokespeople made tough remarks, further reinforcing this signal. Domestically, the exercise intimidated the "Taiwan independence" forces; internationally, it demonstrated to regional powers such as the United States and Japan the resolve of mainland China to carry out precise strikes on Taiwan at any time. The Pentagon may need to reassess the PLA's strike efficiency, especially surgical-style attacks on fixed targets, at the onset of a conflict.

The Taiwanese side quickly responded, stating they were prepared, though without disclosing specific measures. Despite having anti-missile systems like the Patriot PAC-3 and Sky Bow III, the multi-target salvo capability of the PHL-191 could still overwhelm their defenses. As the main supporter of "Taiwan independence," the United States has increased support in recent years through arms sales and joint exercises, but the simulated destruction of the Yong'an terminal exposed Taiwan's infrastructure concentration and vulnerability to attacks.

International reactions varied. The U.S. State Department described the exercise as "destabilizing," while Japan and the EU called for restraint, fearing the impact of strait tensions on global trade. However, mainland China shows no intention of backing down. In recent years, from the encircling exercises after Pelosi's visit to the current "Strait Thunder - 2025A," the PLA has frequently displayed its strength, transitioning from early non-guided artillery to today's precision strike system, showcasing a transformation from quantity-based deterrence to quality-based deterrence.

For Taiwan, this exercise is like a sword hanging over its head. The cannon barrels of the PHL-191 are close at hand, and the "Taiwan independence" forces' proud defense and energy security have been mercilessly exposed, leaving fear nowhere to hide. For East Asia and the global situation, this is not just a display of military power but also a redefinition of strategic balance. The surface of the strait appears calm, yet undercurrents are surging. Whether this exercise is part of routine deterrence or the prelude to a larger storm remains to be answered by time.

Source: https://www.toutiao.com/article/7490384237640663561/

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