Taiwan reported the detection of 37 Chinese military aircraft, including fighter jets and drones, near its airspace on Sunday, signaling escalating tensions in the region. The aircraft were observed starting at 9:00 am local time (0100 GMT) as they conducted what Beijing termed “long-distance” training flights.
In recent years, China has significantly increased its military presence around Taiwan, intensifying pressure on the self-governing island to acknowledge Beijing’s claims of sovereignty. According to Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense, 35 of the detected aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait—a boundary traditionally respected by both sides—entering Taiwanese airspace before heading toward the Western Pacific.
In response to the incursion, Taiwan’s military activated its defense protocols, deploying fighter jets, naval vessels, and shore-based missile systems. This military exercise followed a previous incident, where Taiwan reported observing a “joint combat readiness patrol” by Chinese forces, which included both aircraft and warships.
The defense ministry indicated that within the 24 hours leading up to Sunday morning, Taiwan had detected 27 Chinese aircraft and six warships. This ongoing military activity underscores China’s assertion that Taiwan is a part of its territory, with Beijing maintaining that it will not hesitate to use force to achieve reunification.
The recent exercises come on the heels of large-scale military drills conducted by China around Taiwan last month, which were condemned by both Taipei and its primary ally, the United States. These drills and the increase in military maneuvers are part of a broader strategy by China to demonstrate its military capabilities and resolve in the face of perceived threats from Taiwan and its international supporters.
Earlier reports from the ministry also noted that in late September, the Chinese military had engaged in long-distance training flights, including the launch of an intercontinental ballistic missile into the Pacific, further emphasizing the strategic posturing taking place in the region.
