Taiwan Monitors Chinese Military Activity
On November 13, Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defence (MND) reported increased Chinese military activity. They detected 24 aircraft from the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) and six vessels from the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) near Taiwan. Notably, 15 of these aircraft crossed the median line, entering Taiwan’s Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ) in various regions.
Recent Developments
Just a day earlier, on November 12, the Taiwanese MND observed 10 PLA aircraft and five PLAN vessels. Eight of these aircraft also crossed the median line into Taiwan’s ADIZ. The MND has been closely monitoring these activities and responding accordingly.
Background and Response
Since September 2020, China has increased its military presence around Taiwan, employing grey zone tactics to meet its security goals. In response to these activities, Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te held a national security conference, reassuring the public of the government’s dedication to safeguarding Taiwan’s democracy and security. This came after China’s PLA announced military drills named “Joint Sword-2024B” in the Taiwan Strait, which were seen as a warning to those supporting Taiwan’s independence.
In efforts to modernize its defense, President Lai Ching-te attended a ceremony on November 4 for the new light frigate prototype of the Republic of China Navy 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.
PLA -: PLA stands for the People’s Liberation Army, which is the military force of China. It includes the army, navy, and air force.
PLAN -: PLAN stands for the People’s Liberation Army Navy, which is the naval branch of China’s military forces.
ADIZ -: ADIZ stands for Air Defense Identification Zone. It is an area where a country monitors and controls aircraft for security reasons, even if it’s outside their national airspace.
Median line -: The median line is an imaginary line in the Taiwan Strait that separates Taiwan and China. It is often used as a boundary to avoid conflicts between the two sides.
Lai Ching-te -: Lai Ching-te is the President of Taiwan. He is responsible for leading the country and ensuring its safety and development.
Frigate -: A frigate is a type of warship used by navies. It is smaller than a destroyer and is often used for protecting other ships and patrolling waters.