Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te watched live-fire drills with U.S.-made Abrams M1A2T tanks Thursday, as part of major annual exercises aimed at boosting the island's ability to fend off threats from China.

Theme Poster "Overwhelming Grip" Released by PLA Eastern Theater Command Hyped as the longest-ever, the island of Taiwan's annual Han Kuang drills kicked off on Wednesday, local media reported. While seemingly aimed at improving defense for the Taiwan authorities,

Taiwan included its first batch of 38 U.S.-purchased M1A2T Abrams tanks in a live-fire exercise at Hsinchu military base on Thursday, as it launched its annual military exercises intended to guard against Chinese threats.

Drones, tanks, and innovative new combat tactics were put to the test over the 10-day drill. With tensions escalating in the Taiwan Strait, this unprecedented military build-up sends a sharp message to Beijing.

China claims Taiwan as its own despite Taipei's objections. The United States does not recognize Taiwan's statehood but has political and economic stakes in a peaceful resolution to the decades-long dispute, and is obliged by U.S. law to help Taipei arm itself against a possible attack.

The July 9-18 Han Kuang 41 war games also include urban warfare, sheltering exercises, drills with M1A2T tanks, and a blockade of the Tamsui River, according to the Liberty Times.