Taiwan reports increased Chinese military activity, including aircraft and naval vessels, near its territory, raising concerns about regional stability.
Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND) has reported a surge in Chinese military activity around the island. On Wednesday, 15 People's Liberation Army (PLA) aircraft and eight People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) vessels, along with one official ship, were detected operating near Taiwan. The MND noted that all 15 aircraft crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's southwestern Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ).
This incident is part of an escalating pattern of Chinese maneuvers in the region, raising concerns about regional stability. Taiwan has maintained self-governance since 1949, but China views the island as a renegade province and seeks reunification, potentially by force.
Prior to this, on Tuesday, Taiwan's MND detected six PLA aircraft, eight PLAN vessels, and three official ships operating in the vicinity. All six aircraft had crossed the median line, entering Taiwan's southwestern and eastern ADIZ. Taiwan responded by deploying aircraft, naval ships, and coastal missile systems to monitor the situation.
In related news, Taiwan recently conducted test firings of its Land Sword II and HIMARS systems to enhance its air defense capabilities. The Land Sword II system is designed to counter a variety of aerial threats, providing increased protection for the island's forces.