Taiwan Monitors Chinese Military Activity Amid Tensions
On October 11, Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defence (MND) reported the detection of 20 Chinese military aircraft and 10 naval vessels operating around Taiwan from 6 am Thursday to 6 am Friday. Of these, 13 aircraft from the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait, entering Taiwan’s northern and southwestern Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ). In response, Taiwan deployed aircraft, naval ships, and coastal-based missile systems to monitor the situation.
Since September 2020, China has increased its military presence around Taiwan, employing gray zone tactics. These tactics aim to achieve security objectives without direct force. Taiwan remains a contentious issue for China, which views the island as part of its territory and has expressed intentions to reunify it with the mainland, potentially by force.
Taiwan President William Lai, during a speech on October 4, emphasized that China cannot be considered the “Motherland” of Taiwan’s people. He highlighted the sovereignty of the Republic of China (ROC) over Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen, and Matsu, urging citizens to honor the sacrifices of their predecessors and stand with Taiwan.
Doubts Revealed
Taiwan -: Taiwan is an island located in East Asia, near China. It has its own government and operates like an independent country, but China claims it as part of its territory.
Chinese Military Activity -: This refers to actions taken by China’s armed forces, such as flying aircraft or sailing ships near Taiwan. These activities can be seen as threatening or aggressive.
Ministry of National Defence -: This is a government department in Taiwan responsible for managing the country’s defense and military affairs.
Military Aircraft -: These are airplanes used by the military for defense and combat purposes. They can include fighter jets, bombers, and surveillance planes.
Naval Vessels -: These are ships used by the navy, which is a branch of the military that operates at sea. They can include warships, submarines, and aircraft carriers.
Median Line -: The median line is an imaginary line in the sea that separates the territories of two countries. In this case, it separates Taiwan and China.
ADIZ -: ADIZ stands for Air Defense Identification Zone. It’s an area where a country monitors and controls aircraft to protect its airspace.
Gray Zone Tactics -: These are strategies used by a country to achieve its goals without starting a full-scale war. They can include intimidation, cyber attacks, or economic pressure.
Sovereignty -: Sovereignty means having full control and authority over a territory. It means being an independent and self-governing nation.
William Lai -: William Lai is a political leader in Taiwan. He has served in various government roles, including as the President of Taiwan.