PLA Eastern Theater Command Announces Military Drills and Restricted Areas
Comprehensive Map and Details of Scheduled Military Exercises
The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Eastern Theater Command has issued an official notice regarding a series of significant military exercises scheduled for December 30, 2025.
These drills, which will span from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., include live firing activities across five designated areas in the waters and airspace near the eastern coast of China. The purpose of these drills is to enhance combat readiness and demonstrate operational capabilities in strategic maritime and aerial zones.
Details of the Drill Areas and Coordinates
The PLA has provided precise geographic coordinates outlining each of the five drill zones. These areas are carefully mapped out to cover critical maritime and airspace regions, with the intent of simulating real combat scenarios. The coordinates serve as a clear boundary for the exercises, ensuring minimal ambiguity.
Area 1:
Bounded by the points at 26°32′00″N, 121°40′00″E; 26°32′00″N, 122°36′00″E; 25°43′00″N, 122°36′00″E; and 25°43′00″N, 121°40′00″E.
This zone covers a significant stretch of waters along the southeastern coast, likely involving naval and air combat simulations.
Area 2:
Defined by the coordinates 24°59′00″N, 120°04′00″E; 25°39′00″N, 121°13′00″E; 26°17′00″N, 121°13′00″E; and 25°37′00″N, 120°04′00″E.
Located in the Taiwan Strait region, this area is vital for regional security exercises.
Area 3:
Bounded by 23°27′00″N, 118°14′00″E; 23°27′00″N, 119°13′00″E; 22°13′00″N, 119°44′00″E; and 22°13′00″N, 118°45′00″E.
This zone covers parts of the South China Sea, an area of strategic importance.
Area 4:
Defined by 21°49′00″N, 119°16′00″E; 21°49′00″N, 121°00′00″E; 21°05′00″N, 121°00′00″E; and 21°05′00″N, 119°16′00″E.
A zone that likely includes aerial and maritime exercises in the vicinity of the Taiwan and Fujian coastlines.
Area 5:
Bounded by 21°58′00″N, 121°40′00″E; 21°58′00″N, 122°28′00″E; 23°23′00″N, 122°28′00″E; and 23°23′00″N, 121°40′00″E.
This area includes parts of the northern South China Sea, emphasizing the PLA’s focus on regional security.
Safety Advisory for Vessels and Aircraft
In light of these military activities, the PLA Eastern Theater Command has issued a stern warning to all vessels and aircraft that are not involved in the drills. It is strongly advised that any unrelated maritime or aerial traffic avoid entering the designated zones during the scheduled exercise period. The drills will involve live ammunition, including firing exercises that could pose safety risks to unauthorized vessels and aircraft.
The notice underscores the importance of maintaining security and safety in the region, especially given the sensitive geopolitical situation in the East China Sea and South China Sea. The PLA’s drills are part of routine military readiness activities but also serve as a strategic demonstration of force in a region marked by complex territorial disputes.
Conclusion
The upcoming PLA military drills in the eastern waters and airspace are a clear indication of China’s ongoing emphasis on military preparedness and regional dominance. The detailed coordinates and safety advisories reflect the PLA’s organized approach to conducting these exercises while minimizing risks to civilian navigation. Regional stakeholders and maritime operators are urged to heed the warnings and avoid entering the designated zones during the specified hours, ensuring safety and security for all involved.