China constructs detailed Taipei government district replica for military simulations
6:22 AM EDT, March 30, 2024
In the Inner Mongolia region of China, a detailed replica of the government district of Taiwan's capital has been constructed on a military range. Experts suggest this may be for simulating bombings and missile attacks on Taipei.
The replica, situated near Alxa, a city in China's remote northern part, approximately 621 miles west of Beijing, boasts an impressive level of detail - reports from PAP, as cited by Business Insider, indicate. The creators went to great lengths to mirror the topography of Taiwan's capital accurately. The model includes structures akin to the Taipei presidential office and other government buildings, with a similar street layout. Satellite imagery suggests the existence of the replica since at least December 2022, though its exact construction date remains unclear, Business Insider points out.
Prior instances of mockups reported
News of this installation began spreading on social media earlier this week. This isn’t a unique occurrence. Back in 2014-15, reports emerged of similar replicas mimicking Taipei's government district in Zhurihe, Inner Mongolia. This recent model, however, appears more intricate and is situated on a range known for bombing and missile practice.
Business Insider has also recorded previous constructions in China, including replicas of American aircraft carriers and naval vessels.
The People's Republic of China's communist leadership views the democratically governed Taiwan as an “inalienable” part of its territory, not ruling out force to achieve reunification. Some analysts believe an attempt could be made in the coming years.
In November 2023, Taiwan's then-President, Tsai Ing-wen, suggested that China's leaders, burdened by significant internal economic, financial, and political challenges, might not be in a position to consider invading Taiwan.
