Forty-five Chinese aircraft, six ships detected near Taiwan, tension increases

Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense reported an increase in activity by China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) around the island nation, increasing tensions in the region.

A total of 45 PLA aircraft and 6 ships of China’s People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) were detected operating near Taiwan as of 6 a.m. local time, according to official statements issued on Wednesday.

Of particular concern was the incursion of 26 aircraft into Taiwan’s Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ), which crossed the median line and entered the northern and southwestern sectors of Taiwan’s airspace.

In response to the increased activity, the Republic of China Armed Forces of Taiwan (ROCArmedForces) closely monitored the situation and implemented necessary measures to protect national security.

“As of 6am today (UTC+8), 45 PLA aircraft and 6 PLAN ships were detected operating in the vicinity of Taiwan. 26 aircraft crossed the median line and entered Taiwan’s northern and southwestern ADIZ. #ROCArmedForces have monitored the situation and responded accordingly,” Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense said on Wednesday.

The development comes amid already heightened tensions between Taiwan and China, with Beijing asserting its claims of sovereignty over Taiwan, which it considers a rebel province. Taiwan, on the other hand, maintains its independence and democratic governance.

The recent surge in PLA activity underscores China’s ongoing military maneuvers near Taiwan’s borders, raising concerns about the threat of potential escalation and confrontation in the region.

The MND has issued daily reports on Chinese military activities for the past few years, including identifying Chinese aircraft, drones and balloons that have been detected crossing the Taiwan Strait midline and approaching Taiwan.

The midline of the Taiwan Strait served as a secret border between China and Taiwan for decades, but since former United States House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan in August 2022, China’s military has shown greater independence across the Taiwan Strait. Have sent planes, warships and drones.

Since September 2020, China has increased its use of gray zone tactics by increasing the number of military aircraft and naval ships operating around Taiwan.

Gray zone strategy is defined as “a series of efforts or efforts beyond steady-state deterrence and reassurance that attempt to achieve one’s security objectives without resorting to the direct and large use of force.”