China Stages Missile Strikes and Bombing Runs on Taiwan Using Jets Loaded with Live Weapons

China stepped up its “punishment” military drill around Taiwan on Friday, staging mock missile attacks and bombing runs against the island, plus simulated attacks on foreign vessels that might come to Taiwan’s aid.

The Chinese jets participating in the drill were clearly armed with live missiles.

The first day of China’s military drill, which the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) described as “punishment” for Taiwan electing “separatist” President William Lai Ching-te, was a bit less provocative.