In a recent development, the Ministry of National Defense (MND) in Taiwan has reported the detection of 24 Chinese military aircraft and five navy vessels near the country’s airspace and waters. The information was provided by Taiwan News, an English-language newspaper based in Taiwan.
According to the MND, out of the 24 aircraft identified as belonging to the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), 10 entered Taiwan’s air defense identification zone (ADIZ) and crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait. This group included four Shenyang J-11 fighter jets, four Shenyang J-16 combat jets, and two Sukhoi Su-30 fighter planes.In response to this provocative action, Taiwan dispatched its own aircraft, navy ships, and land-based missiles to closely monitor the activities of the PLA. The MND has been proactive in keeping a close eye on these incursions and ensuring the safety and security of Taiwan’s airspace and territorial waters.The recent influx of Chinese military aircraft and naval vessels around Taiwan is part of an ongoing trend. According to Taiwan News, Beijing has deployed a total of 141 military aircraft and 53 naval ships in the vicinity of Taiwan throughout the current month alone. This escalation in military presence reflects a shift towards intensified employment of grey zone tactics by China since September 2020.
Grey zone tactics refer to strategic actions taken by a country that go beyond conventional deterrence measures, aiming to achieve their security objectives without resorting to direct and substantial use of force. China’s increasing use of such tactics, including the gradual buildup of military assets near Taiwan, is a matter of concern for regional stability.
The situation raises tensions between China and Taiwan, as well as with other neighboring countries who closely monitor these developments. The international community has been paying attention to the escalating tensions in the region, urging restraint and peaceful dialogue to avoid any potential conflict.
Taiwan, a self-governing democratic island, maintains its own government, military, and foreign relations. However, Beijing considers Taiwan as a part of its territory and has not ruled out the use of force to bring the island under its control. The ongoing military activities by China near Taiwan further complicate the already complex cross-strait relations.
As the situation unfolds, it is crucial for all parties involved to exercise restraint, promote dialogue, and respect international norms. Maintaining stability in the region is vital for peace and prosperity, and it is important for the international community to closely monitor the developments and support efforts towards peaceful resolutions of conflicts.
