Han Kuang Exercise: Taiwan President Lai Ching-te's First Drill Participation, 'Wan Jun' Convoy Rushes to Defense Ministry with U.S. Military Observers Present

The Han Kuang 42 live-fire military exercise commenced today (5th), launching a 10-day, 9-night operational drill. In the early hours of the first day, President Lai Ching-te’s 'Wan Jun' motorcade appeared near the Presidential Office, with Lai himself boarding one of the armored vehicles and heading directly to the Defense Ministry’s Datong headquarters—an unprecedented move since his inauguration and a clear signal of heightened readiness. The presence of U.S. military observers further underscores the international attention on Taiwan’s defense posture.

The 'Wan Jun Plan' is a national security protocol designed to ensure the president's safety during emergencies. In the event of an attack on the Presidential Office or official residence, the plan activates eight-wheeled Yung Hsing (Clouded Leopard) armored vehicles and Black Hawk helicopters to evacuate the president and vice president via ground or air routes to secure locations. These specialized armored vehicles, officially designated as 'Wan Jun vehicles,' are currently based on Taiwan’s domestically produced CM32 Clouded Leopard eight-wheeled armored personnel carriers.

Around 10:00 PM on the first night of Han Kuang 42, three heavy motorcycles and Humvees from the 202nd Command’s Rapid Reaction Company sped out of Zhong’ai Camp, patrolling Bo’ai Road and Aiguo West Road. At approximately 10:30 PM, the first wave of 'Wan Jun' vehicles exited the camp. Ten minutes later, a second wave of six eight-wheeled armored vehicles followed. Just before 11:00 PM, the third wave departed the camp but, unlike the previous groups, turned right onto Aiguo West Road.

Police subsequently blocked off Bo’ai Road behind the Presidential Office. The leading 'Wan Jun' convoy gathered at the rear gate of the Presidential Office and Changsha Street, with President Lai’s personal motorcade waiting nearby. Moments later, the entire convoy mobilized. According to sources, President Lai was aboard one of the Clouded Leopard armored vehicles as the convoy sped toward the Defense Ministry.

Storm Media’s on-site reporting confirmed that U.S. military personnel first entered Zhong’ai Camp, then visited the Presidential Office, and later observed the 'Wan Jun' convoy up close. This indicates a high level of U.S. interest in the convoy’s route and operational procedures. This drill marks President Lai’s first direct participation in the Han Kuang exercise since taking office, underscoring its strategic importance.

Additional exclusive reports from Storm Media: • Han Kuang 42 Exercise: Aircraft Incident on First Day! F-16 Fighter Skids Off Runway During Landing—Pilot Unharmed • Han Kuang Exercise: Marine Corps Deploys 'Chinook Helicopters' for Cross-Regional Reinforcement—Rare Sighting Alongside President Lai’s Special Aircraft