Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defence (MND) reported the detection of 11 Chinese military aircraft and eight naval vessels around Taiwan in the past 24 hours until 6 am on Thursday. This was reported by Taiwan News. Among the 11 aircraft from the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), seven crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait in the northern and southwestern parts of Taiwan’s air defense identification zone (ADIZ). Additionally, one PLA helicopter was tracked in the southeastern ADIZ.
Responding to the presence of Chinese military forces, Taiwan dispatched its own aircraft and naval ships. The country also deployed coastal-based missile systems to keep a close watch on the PLA activities, according to the MND’s report.
This incident is part of a larger pattern observed throughout this month, during which Taiwan has detected Chinese military aircraft 209 times and naval or coast guard vessels 163 times. Since September 2020, China has been increasingly using what are known as “gray zone tactics” around Taiwan. These tactics involve gradually increasing military pressure without engaging in direct conflict. The aim is to achieve security goals without resorting to large-scale force.
Gray zone tactics are described as actions that go beyond regular deterrence and assurance efforts but stop short of outright war. These tactics are meant to create pressure and achieve strategic objectives subtly and incrementally.
The recent incident is just one of many similar provocations by China in recent months. China has stepped up its military activities around Taiwan, including frequent air and naval incursions into Taiwan’s ADIZ. These actions are seen as attempts to assert control and intimidate Taiwan.
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Taiwan has always been a sensitive topic in China’s foreign policy. The Chinese government claims Taiwan as part of its territory and insists on reunification, even suggesting the use of force if necessary. This stance continues to fuel tensions between China and Taiwan, as well as between China and other countries that support Taiwan’s autonomy.
The ongoing military activities and the use of gray zone tactics by China highlight the fragile and tense situation in the region. Taiwan remains vigilant, constantly monitoring and responding to Chinese military movements to safeguard its sovereignty and security.
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