China’s hypersonic anti-ship missiles, ‘artificial sun’ milestone: SCMP daily highlights

From day 2 of Beijing’s military drills near Taiwan to a first for China’s Communist Party, here’s a round-up from today’s China coverage

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Two YJ-21 hypersonic anti-ship ballistic missiles can be seen on board a Chinese H-6K bomber in a video released by the People’s Liberation Army on Tuesday. Photo: PLA Eastern Theatre Command

Published: 9:15pm, 2 Apr 2025

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1. Are Beijing’s hypersonic anti-ship missiles in Taiwan Strait a warning for US?

The People’s Liberation Army appears to have deployed its new hypersonic anti-ship missiles during drills around Taiwan on Tuesday, in what analysts said was a signal to the US against any potential interference amid the rising tensions.

2. In a first for China’s Communist Party, 2 Politburo members swap jobs

In an unprecedented swap, the heads of the personnel department and influence machine of China’s ruling Communist Party have switched roles, the South China Morning Post has learned.

3. Live-fire action marks day 2 of Beijing’s military drills near Taiwan

Mainland Chinese ground forces conduct live-fire drills targeting simulated key infrastructure in the East China Sea on Wednesday, as part of continuing military exercises near Taiwan. Photo: CCTV

The People’s Liberation Army is continuing its military exercises in the central and southern Taiwan Strait with a focus on Wednesday of blockade enforcement.