Chinese Aircraft and Ships Heighten Taiwan’s Security Concerns

On Wednesday, Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defence (MND) reported increased Chinese military movements. The MND detected 12 aircraft from the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) and nine ships from the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) operating near Taiwan.

Aircraft Cross Taiwan’s Median Line

Notably, nine of the PLA aircraft crossed the median line into Taiwan’s southwestern Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ). In response, the MND closely monitored the situation and took appropriate action.

The MND posted on X, “12 PLA aircraft and 9 PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 9 of the aircraft crossed the median line and entered Taiwan’s southwestern ADIZ. We have monitored the situation and responded accordingly.”

Additional Military Activity Detected on Tuesday

Earlier, on Tuesday, the MND detected even more Chinese military activity. By 6 a.m. (local time), they had identified 20 PLA aircraft and six PLAN vessels.

The MND stated, “20 PLA aircraft and 6 PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 16 of the aircraft crossed the median line and entered Taiwan’s central, southwestern, and southeastern ADIZ. We have monitored the situation and responded accordingly.”

China’s Ongoing Military Build-Up

Since September 2020, China has consistently increased its military presence near Taiwan. They have been using “grey zone tactics” to meet their security objectives, escalating the pressure on Taiwan.

Taiwan’s Response to Chinese Threats

In response to these mounting threats, President Lai Ching-te convened a national security conference. He reassured the public that Taiwan would stand firm in defending its democracy and security. These remarks followed China’s announcement of its “Joint Sword-2024B” military drills around Taiwan.

The drills, viewed as a warning to Taiwan’s independence supporters, were described as a “stern warning.”

Modernizing Taiwan’s Defense

To further bolster Taiwan’s defense, President Lai attended the keel-laying ceremony for a new light frigate on November 4. This ship is part of Taiwan’s ongoing efforts to modernize its military. The ceremony took place at the Kaohsiung shipyard, marking another step in strengthening Taiwan’s naval capabilities.