China Taiwan Conflict: The second-highest number of Chinese military aircraft this year was detected surrounding the island in a 24-hour period, according to a statement released by Taiwan’s defence ministry on Thursday. Additionally, five navy ships were found to be in operation around Taiwan by the Ministry of National Defence in the 24 hours preceding 6:00 a.m. on Thursday (2200 GMT on Wednesday).
Chinese Aircraft Breach Taiwan Strait Median Line
According to a statement, 13 of the planes “crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait”. Taiwan’s military has “monitored the situation and employed (patrol) aircraft, Navy vessels, and coastal missile systems in response to the detected activities” . The ministry found 33 Chinese aeroplanes over the island in two more 24-hour periods in late January and early February, the most so far this year.
Chinese Military Escalation Follows Taiwan Election Results
These discoveries came after Beijing-disliked Vice President Lai Ching-te won the January 13 presidential election. As the dispute between Beijing and Taipei over a tragic fishing boat incident continued, Taiwan announced last month that 11 Chinese navy boats had been spotted near Taiwan, the highest this year.
On February 14, while being pursued by the Taiwanese coast guard, a Chinese speedboat carrying four passengers collapsed near the Kinmen islands, killing two and saving the other two. The incident took place in the midst of escalating hostilities between China and Taiwan, an independent island that Beijing believes is part of its sovereignty and would one day be taken by force.
Beijing Accuses Taipei of Concealing Truth in Kinmen Boat Incident
Although a Taiwanese coast guard official stated that the boat involved was zigzagging and “lost its balance” before capsizing, Beijing has accused Taiwanese officials of “seeking to evade their responsibilities and hide the truth” regarding the event.
A record eight Chinese balloons were seen in Taiwan over the course of two days last month during the Lunar New Year holiday, some of which flew directly over the island. In recent years, Beijing has increased military pressure on the island, deploying aeroplanes and naval vessels almost daily and increasing the number of balloons that fly above it.