Taiwan Monitors Chinese Military Activity
Recent Developments
On November 6, Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defence (MND) reported the detection of 12 aircraft and nine naval vessels from China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) and People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) near Taiwan. Nine of these aircraft crossed the median line into Taiwan’s southwestern Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ). The MND assured that the situation is being closely monitored and responded to accordingly.
Previous Incidents
Earlier, on November 5, the MND detected 20 PLA aircraft and six PLAN vessels. Sixteen of these aircraft crossed the median line, entering Taiwan’s central, southwestern, and southeastern ADIZ. The MND continues to monitor these activities.
Background and Response
Since September 2020, China has increased its military presence around Taiwan, employing grey zone tactics. In response, Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te held a national security conference, reaffirming the government’s commitment to safeguarding Taiwan’s democracy and security. This followed China’s announcement of military drills named “Joint Sword-2024B” in the Taiwan Strait, intended as a warning to Taiwan independence advocates.
Modernization Efforts
In efforts to modernize its military, President Lai Ching-te attended a keel-laying ceremony for a new light frigate prototype for the Taiwanese Navy on November 4 at the Kaohsiung shipyard.
Doubts Revealed
Taiwan -: Taiwan is an island located in East Asia, near China. It is a place with its own government and is known for its technology and beautiful landscapes.
Chinese Military Activity -: This refers to actions taken by China’s armed forces, like moving ships or planes near Taiwan. It can be seen as a show of strength or a way to pressure Taiwan.
President Lai Ching-te -: Lai Ching-te is a leader in Taiwan, similar to a prime minister or chief minister in India. He helps make important decisions for the country.
Ministry of National Defence -: This is a part of Taiwan’s government that is responsible for protecting the country and keeping it safe from threats, like other countries’ military activities.
ADIZ -: ADIZ stands for Air Defense Identification Zone. It’s an area in the sky where a country monitors and controls aircraft to protect its security.
Naval Frigate -: A naval frigate is a type of warship used by the navy. It is smaller than a destroyer and is used for protecting other ships and patrolling the sea.
Grey Zone Tactics -: These are actions that are not quite war but are meant to intimidate or pressure another country. They can include things like military exercises or cyber attacks.