Taiwan Tracks 12 Chinese Aircraft, 7 Vessels Near ADIZ
Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defence reported the detection of 12 Chinese military aircraft and seven naval vessels operating near its Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ) by early Tuesday. The ministry confirmed that 10 of the aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered northern, southwestern, and southeastern sections of Taiwan’s ADIZ.
This follows a similar pattern observed the previous day, where five aircraft and nine vessels were involved in activities near the island, including three aircraft that also crossed the median line. Taiwan continues to monitor and respond to these movements with increased air patrols, reconnaissance efforts, and firm readiness protocols.
President Lai Ching-te reiterated Taiwan’s commitment to national defense and regional peace. He emphasized that despite ongoing international conflicts, particularly in the Middle East, Taiwan remains vigilant in the face of increasing pressure from China across critical maritime routes.
Grey-Zone Tactics and Strategic Significance
The recent operations by the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) are viewed as part of a sustained grey-zone warfare strategy. By persistently operating near or within Taiwan’s ADIZ, China aims to exhaust Taiwanese defense resources, normalize intrusions, and assert its territorial claims without triggering open conflict.
The median line of the Taiwan Strait, though unofficial, has long served as a tacit boundary between China and Taiwan. Chinese incursions beyond this line are considered highly provocative and undermine the delicate balance maintained in the region.
Taiwanese forces responded swiftly by scrambling fighter jets and activating surveillance assets. The defense ministry has also coordinated with international partners to track and report the activities of Chinese vessels and aircraft.
Rising Risk in the Indo-Pacific
The pattern of increasing PLA military presence near Taiwan coincides with broader regional maneuvers, including naval operations by Chinese aircraft carriers. These developments are being closely watched by Indo-Pacific powers, with heightened monitoring by Japan and increased deterrence measures by the United States.
Defense analysts warn that the frequency and scale of these incursions heighten the risk of miscalculation, which could inadvertently escalate into direct conflict. Taiwan has consistently called for restraint and international support in maintaining peace and stability in the Strait.
