In the past three days, the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has undertaken significant deployments of warplanes and navy ships in the vicinity of Taiwan.
On Wednesday, Taiwan’s defense ministry made an announcement revealing that a notable deployment of 68 warplanes, including fighter jets and bombers, along with 13 navy ships, has been observed moving toward Taiwan.
The #CCP has deployed 68 warplanes toward Taiwan in just the past two days. @POTUS can ignore this aggression but @HouseGOP won't. That's why the #FY24NDAA directly combats China and bolsters our military readiness.https://t.co/CpXmUmx165
— Representative Lisa McClain (@RepLisaMcClain) July 13, 2023
Some of these aircraft and vessels have even crossed the median line in the Taiwan Strait, which acts as an informal demarcation between China and Taiwan, although China does not acknowledge its legitimacy.
Beijing deployed the warplanes and ships to the region as part of its annual defensive training exercises. These exercises aim to enhance preparedness for potential invasion scenarios through strategic drills and simulations.
According to Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense, a significant number of the aircraft headed toward Taiwan have already entered its Air Defense Identification Zone. On Tuesday, 32 aircraft entered the zone, and an additional 23 aircraft followed suit on Wednesday.
This development highlights the escalating activity in the region and raises concerns about regional security.
In addition to the heightened military activity, Taiwan is preparing for its upcoming annual Han Kuang exercise, scheduled for later in July. The primary objective of this exercise is to conduct comprehensive drills that enhance Taiwan’s readiness and preparedness in the event of an invasion.
Simultaneously, Taiwan will also hold the Wan’an exercises, focusing on training civilians to respond effectively to natural disasters and raising awareness about air raid preparedness. These exercises collectively aim to bolster Taiwan’s overall defense capabilities and ensure the safety and resilience of its population.
China has consistently asserted its claim that Taiwan is an integral part of its territory, and it strongly opposes any efforts advocating for Taiwan’s independence. Beijing has been vocal in criticizing and issuing warnings to any nation supporting or promoting the notion of Taiwanese independence.
Taiwan’s defense ministry has declared that its armed forces are actively engaged in closely monitoring the ongoing situation and the movements of Chinese troops through their robust intelligence and surveillance systems. In response to the recent acts of aggression by China, Taiwan has deployed civilian air patrol units, naval vessels and land-based systems to ensure its readiness and security.
The United States, along with Taiwan’s allies, has consistently condemned China for its aggressive actions in the region. They have expressed unwavering support for Taiwan, reaffirming their commitment to the island nation’s security and sovereignty.
