Taiwan Detects Over 30 Chinese Military Aircraft Close To Island

Tensions flared again over the weekend as over 30 Chinese military planes reportedly flew near the island, putting Taiwan on high alert.

At a Glance

A total of 37 Chinese aircraft were reportedly detected near Taiwan on Sunday.
35 aircraft reportedly crossed the median line into Taiwanese airspace.
Taiwan responded with aircraft, naval vessels, and missile systems.
The incident followed other exercises between China and Taiwan in past months.

Weekend Military Maneuvers

On Sunday, Taiwan reported the incursion of 37 Chinese aircraft, comprising fighter jets and drones, in close proximity to the island. These drills are described by Taiwan as involving “long-distance” training flights. Of the 37 aircraft, 35 crossed over the median line of the Taiwan Strait, a critical threshold that acts as an informal boundary between the two regions.

This provoked an immediate response from Taiwan’s military, which deployed navy vessels, aircraft, and land-based missile systems to safeguard its airspace. These maneuvers were not isolated; they followed previous exercises conducted by China involving both fighter jets and warships.

Taiwan says Chinese planes crossed median line, China carries out landing drills https://t.co/jGnVppJBhR pic.twitter.com/SfVdePR8lL

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Patterns of Aggression

This military incursion is part of a broader pattern of Chinese military activities in the region. Just prior to these flights, Taiwan also detected 27 Chinese aircraft and six warships in nearby areas within a span of 24 hours. Such military actions are seen as a statement by China, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory.

“China’s drills not only affect Taiwan’s neighborhood, but also seriously affect the entire international navigational rights and air and sea space, so attracted the attention of other countries,” Premier Cho Jung-tai said.

The latest exercises are reminiscent of the recent “Joint Sword-2024B” drills, which involved a record 153 aircraft near Taiwan. Taiwan’s defense ministry flagged this large-scale involvement as a heightened moment of tension, during which 28 aircraft had crossed the median line, previously not recognized by China as a border.

Impact and Global Implications

Taiwan’s leadership continues to voice concerns over the implications of these military activities. Taiwan’s Jung-tai stated, “Any drills without prior warning will cause great disturbance to peace and stability in the entire region.” These actions cast a shadow not only over Taiwan but also stir international waters, affecting international navigational rights and attracting global attention.

The Taiwanese government maintains its stance against China’s territorial claims, emphasizing that any future decisions regarding their sovereignty will be made by the Taiwanese people. The ongoing military activities pose significant challenges for Taiwan’s defense and regional peace.