Taiwan Reports Surge in Chinese Military Activity Near Its Borders

Taipei, July 18 2024 : Taiwan has reported a significant increase in Chinese military activity around its borders early Thursday, with a notable presence of Chinese aircraft and naval vessels near its territory.

The Ministry of National Defence (MND) of Taiwan disclosed that 20 aircraft from China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) and 6 vessels from the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) were detected in and around Taiwan’s Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ). This surge in military activity marks a considerable escalation in tensions.

According to the MND, ten of the detected aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait, an informal boundary traditionally separating the two sides. These aircraft entered Taiwan’s northern, southwestern, and eastern ADIZs, prompting an immediate strategic response from Taiwan’s defense forces.

“Up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today, 20 PLA aircraft and 6 PLAN vessels were detected operating around Taiwan. Ten of these aircraft crossed the median line and entered our northern, southwestern, and eastern ADIZs. We have been actively monitoring the situation and responding accordingly,” the Ministry stated on X.

In response to these incursions, Taiwan has heightened its surveillance and defensive measures around the ADIZ. The military is on high alert and prepared to defend Taiwan’s airspace and maritime interests.

This incident comes amid escalating tensions across the Taiwan Strait, with China intensifying its military presence and conducting frequent drills in the region. These maneuvers are viewed as part of Beijing’s ongoing pressure campaign against Taiwan, which China considers a renegade province.

The increased military activity by China has raised concerns among international observers and Taiwan’s global partners, reflecting the broader geopolitical tensions in the region.