Taiwan’s defense ministry said on Thursday it had detected a surge of Chinese warplanes flying off its east, west and south coasts in what a security source said was China simulating attacks to prevent foreign forces helping during a conflict. Furthermore, the increased number of Chinese warplanes near Taiwan adds pressure to an already delicate situation. #ChineseWarplanesTaiwan
Democratically governed Taiwan, which Beijing views as its own territory, has complained of stepped up Chinese military activity over the past five years. Taiwan’s government rejects China’s sovereignty claims.
In its daily report, Taiwan’s defense ministry detected 43 Chinese military aircraft around the island in the past 24 hours. Notably, at least 11 of these aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait. This line had previously acted as an unofficial barrier between the two sides.
Of the 43 aircraft, 23 flew south of Taiwan through the Bashi Channel, which separates Taiwan from the Philippines. They then traveled up along Taiwan’s east coast. However, these aircraft did not enter Taiwan’s territorial airspace.
The ministry said on Wednesday that Chinese aircraft were engaged in long-range missions around Taiwan.
A security source familiar with the situation, speaking on condition of anonymity given the sensitivity of the matter, said the flights were part of annual Chinese drills.
The People’s Liberation Army conducted simulated attacks in the Taiwan Strait and the South China Sea. These exercises aimed to practice denying foreign assistance in case of regional conflict.
The Chinese air force also conducted drills to seize “air dominance” in waters off Taiwan’s southwestern coast and practiced air refueling in waters around the Bashi Channel, the source added.
China’s defense ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
China last staged full-fledged war games around Taiwan in late May shortly after Lai Ching-te took office as Taiwan’s new president. Beijing detests him and describes him as a “separatist”.
Lai says only Taiwan’s people can decide their future and has repeatedly offered talks with Beijing but has been rebuffed. #ChineseWarplanesTaiwan
Taiwan’s Defense Measures in Response to Escalating Threats from Chinese Warplanes
Consequently, the presence of Chinese warplanes Taiwan could impact the broader geopolitical landscape. As tensions rise, international allies express concerns. Additionally, diplomatic efforts face new challenges amid the increasing military activity.
read more
