Four Chinese Warships, PLA Aircraft & Several Patrol Ships Surround Taiwan

Taiwan is on high alert after increased Chinese military presence was reported in its waters, raising concerns about national security.

The Ministry of National Defence (MND) identified Chinese military aircraft, naval vessels and official ships operating near its territorial waters.

Two sorties of Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) aircraft, 8 People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) ships and 4 government ships surrounded the island at 6 a.m. local time on Sunday.

On Saturday, the ministry had reported 5 sorties of Chinese aircraft, 9 PLAN ships and 5 government vessels sailing close to the island nation.

China has increased its military presence in Taiwanese waters over the past few months.

In response, Taiwan’s first indigenously built submarine recently left Kaohsiung Port for sea trials and dive tests.

Taiwan has increased its defence spending to protect itself against a potential Chinese invasion in future.

China claims that Taiwan is a part of its territory, tracing the claim back to the Qing dynasty’s annexation of the island in 1683 after the defeat of Ming Loyalist Koxinga.

Beijing states that the island nation is an inseparable part of China, a view reflected in its domestic regulations and national policy framework.

Taiwan, on the other hand, says that it is independent and sovereign with its own government, economy and military.

The island’s status remains an international issue that has sparked debates over self-determination.