Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defence (MND) reported an escalation in Chinese military presence near the island, with the detection of 23 Chinese military aircraft and six naval vessels. Among these, 16 aircraft crossed the median line and entered Taiwan’s airspace.
The MND shared details in a post on X, stating, “23 PLA aircraft and 6 PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 16 of the aircraft crossed the median line and entered Taiwan’s northern, southwestern, and eastern ADIZ. We have monitored the situation and responded accordingly.“
On Sunday, the MND reported further activity, detecting five Chinese military aircraft and five naval vessels operating near Taiwan. According to the MND, “Five PLA aircraft and five PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. Three of the aircraft crossed the median line and entered Taiwan’s northern and southwestern ADIZ. We have monitored the situation and responded accordingly.“
The MND also noted previous military operations on Saturday, where seven Chinese military aircraft and five naval vessels were detected near the island. The increasing military activity has raised concerns about Taiwan’s security and regional stability.
Additionally, Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defence highlighted the opening of the new barracks at the ROC Armed Forces Army Airborne Training Center. The upgraded base, with next-generation training methods and equipment, is designed to enhance the combat capabilities of Taiwan’s paratroopers and special warfare units.
In light of rising tensions, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte criticized China’s aggressive stance, warning about the country’s military build-up. He said, “We need to be clear-eyed about China’s ambitions. China is substantially building up its forces, including its nuclear weapons – with no transparency and no limitations. From 200 warheads in 2020, China is expected to have more than 1,000 nuclear weapons by 2030. Its space-launch investments are skyrocketing. China is bullying Taiwan, and pursuing access to our critical infrastructure in ways that could cripple our societies.“
The Taiwan Strait remains a focal point of escalating tensions, with Taiwanese officials repeatedly condemning China’s increased military operations as a direct threat to Taiwan’s sovereignty and regional peace. China, which views Taiwan as part of its territory, insists on eventual reunification, even if that means using force.