Increased Chinese Military Activity Near Taiwan

Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND) has reported a rise in Chinese military presence near its territory. Recently, five aircraft from the People's Liberation Army (PLA) and six vessels from the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) were detected around Taiwan. Notably, three of these aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait, entering Taiwan's southwestern Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ).

The MND shared this information in a post, stating, "5 sorties of PLA aircraft and 6 PLAN vessels around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 3 out of 5 sorties crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's southwestern ADIZ. We have monitored the situation and responded accordingly."

Previous Incidents

Earlier, the MND reported that 14 PLA aircraft and 6 PLAN vessels were detected around Taiwan. Nine of these aircraft crossed the median line, entering the northern and southwestern ADIZ of the island nation.

China's Military Developments

In recent weeks, China has enhanced its capability to conduct amphibious assaults on Taiwan's beaches. This includes the launch of an advanced landing helicopter assault vessel and the mass production of floating bridge docks to assist in ship unloading during beach landings.

Background on Taiwan-China Relations

The Taiwan-China conflict is a longstanding geopolitical issue focused on Taiwan's sovereignty. While Taiwan operates as an independent state with its own government, military, and economy, China views it as a breakaway province under the "One China" policy. Since the Chinese Civil War, China has used various measures to pressure Taiwan, which continues to assert its independence with strong domestic support.