TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Matsu Defense Command conducted an emergency response drill on Wednesday at Nangan Airport in cooperation with the Matsu Airport Office, the Aviation Police Bureau, and the airport’s fire response team.

The drill simulated an enemy arson attack on the airport in an attempt to seize the control tower, CNA reported. The airport office initiated its core security measures, while command units rapidly deployed to intercept the enemy and secure the area. 

Troops blocked external access roads and assumed security duties from the aviation police. They engaged with the enemy and handed over firefighting tasks to the airport’s fire response team.

Matsu is located on Taiwan’s northern frontier and relies heavily on sea and air transport, the command said. The airport’s capacity for rapid transport is particularly crucial during emergencies involving supply delivery and medical evacuation, it added.

The drill tested the military’s emergency response capabilities and showcased civil-military integration, the command said. Taiwan's Third Theater Command carried out an anti-airborne assault drill at Songshan Airport early Wednesday morning.