Taiwan Detects Chinese Military Aircraft and Naval Vessels Near Its Territory

Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defence (MND) reported that from 6 am on Wednesday to 6 am on Thursday, 30 Chinese military aircraft and 8 naval vessels were detected near Taiwan. Nineteen of these aircraft crossed the median line and entered Taiwan’s Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ) in the north, central, southwest, and southeast regions.

In response, Taiwan deployed aircraft, naval ships, and coastal-based missile systems to monitor the situation. The MND stated, “30 PLA aircraft and 8 PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. today. 19 of the aircraft crossed the median line and entered Taiwan’s ADIZ. We’ve monitored the situation and responded accordingly.”

Since September 2020, China has increased its military activities around Taiwan, using gray zone tactics to achieve its security objectives without direct force. This latest incident is part of a series of provocations by China, which considers Taiwan part of its territory and insists on eventual reunification.

Meanwhile, Taiwan’s Coast Guard Administration (CGA) demanded that China explain the seizure of a Taiwanese fishing vessel, the Da Jin Man No 88, and release its crew. The vessel was intercepted by the Chinese coast guard near Fujian Province. Despite efforts by the CGA to assist, the fishing boat was taken to Fujian’s Port of Weitou.