The heightened frequency of China’s military manoeuvres in proximity to Taiwan has sparked apprehension regarding the situation potentially spiralling out of control, warns Taiwan’s defence minister. Over the past fortnight, Taiwan reported an influx of numerous fighters, drones, bombers, warships, and even the Chinese carrier, Shandong, operating in close proximity.
China, asserting its sovereignty claims over democratically governed Taiwan, has, in recent years, conducted numerous such exercises around the island, applying pressure on Taipei. In response to questions from reporters during parliament discussions about the risk of accidental incidents leading to broader conflicts due to the frequent Chinese activities, Taiwan’s Defense Minister, Chiu Kuo-cheng, expressed deep concerns, stating, “This is something we are very worried about.” Notably, warships from China’s southern and eastern theatre commands have jointly conducted operations off Taiwan’s eastern coast, further raising tensions.
Chiu emphasized the escalating risks associated with aircraft, naval vessels, and military weaponry in the region, urging both sides to remain vigilant. China has yet to comment on the drills around Taiwan, and its defense ministry has not responded to requests for clarification.
Chiu disclosed that when the Shandong was at sea, operating as the “opposing force” during the drills, Taiwan considered China’s Eastern Theatre Command forces as the “attacking force,” simulating a battle scenario. Traditionally, Taiwan’s military strategy for potential conflicts has involved utilizing its mountainous eastern coast, particularly the major air bases, as a means to regroup and safeguard its forces, given that it does not directly face China, unlike the island’s west coast.
However, China has increasingly demonstrated its military capabilities off Taiwan’s eastern coast, highlighting its ability to operate farther from its own coastline. Notably, China typically conducts large-scale exercises from July to September, according to Taiwan’s defense ministry.
Recent reports from Taiwan’s defense ministry suggest that China has somewhat reduced its drills, with only two Chinese aircraft spotted in its air defense zone over the past 24 hours. Taiwan maintains its commitment to remaining calm and preventing escalation but asserts that it will not tolerate “repeated provocations” from China, which has so far refrained from entering Taiwan’s territorial seas or airspace.
