China’s Live-Fire Drills in Taiwan Strait
China is planning to conduct live-fire drills in the Taiwan Strait on Tuesday, as reported by local media in Taiwan. This follows the recent passage of US and Canadian warships through the contested waters on Sunday and a large-scale military exercise by China last week.
Details of the Drills
The live-fire exercises will occur near Niushan Island from 9am to 1pm local time, according to China’s Fujian Daily. The Maritime Safety Administration has issued a notice prohibiting ships from entering the area during this period.
Geographical Context
Niushan Island is located approximately 80 kilometers south of the Taiwan-controlled Matsu Islands and about 165 kilometers from Taipei. The island features a lighthouse that aids navigation in the Taiwan Strait and is near a suspended ferry route between Pingtan and Taipei.
US and Canadian Naval Activity
On Sunday, the US Navy’s USS Higgins and the Canadian frigate HMCS Vancouver conducted a routine transit through the Taiwan Strait. The US Navy stated that this was in accordance with international law, emphasizing freedom of navigation and overflight.
China’s Response
China criticized the US and Canadian actions, claiming they disrupted peace and stability in the region. Additionally, on Tuesday, 17 Chinese aircraft and 9 naval vessels were detected around Taiwan, with 11 aircraft crossing the median line into Taiwan’s air defense identification zones.
Doubts Revealed
Live-Fire Drills -: Live-fire drills are military exercises where real weapons are used to practice combat scenarios. It’s like a practice session for soldiers to prepare for real battles.
Taiwan Strait -: The Taiwan Strait is a body of water that separates Taiwan from mainland China. It’s an important and sometimes tense area because both China and Taiwan have different views about who should control it.
Niushan Island -: Niushan Island is a small island near Taiwan. It’s close to the Matsu Islands, which are controlled by Taiwan, and is important because of its location in the Taiwan Strait.
Matsu Islands -: The Matsu Islands are a group of islands controlled by Taiwan. They are located near the coast of China and are important for Taiwan’s defense.
US and Canadian Naval Passage -: This means that warships from the United States and Canada traveled through the Taiwan Strait. They did this to show that the area is open for international navigation according to international law.
International Law -: International law is a set of rules that countries agree to follow. It helps maintain peace and order by ensuring that countries respect each other’s rights and boundaries.
Regional Peace -: Regional peace refers to the absence of conflict or war in a specific area. In this context, it means keeping the Taiwan Strait and nearby regions calm and without military tensions.