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Updated Jun 17, 2026 · 09:26
World News Updated Jun 17, 2026

Taiwan Detects 6 Chinese Naval Vessels Near Its Waters

Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence detected six Chinese naval vessels operating near its territorial waters as of Wednesday morning. The MND reported monitoring the situation and responding, noting no PLA aircraft were detected during the same timeframe. This follows earlier reports of six vessels detected on Tuesday and recent sea trials of Taiwan's first domestically built submarine. The incursions occur amid China's ongoing military buildup around Taiwan, rooted in Beijing's claim that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China.

Taiwan detects 6 Chinese naval vessels around its territory

Taipei, June 17

Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence detected the presence of six Chinese naval vessels around its territorial waters as of 6am on Wednesday.

As per the MND, the forces assessed the situation and responded.

In a post on X, the MND said, "6 PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. ROC Armed Forces have monitored the situation and responded. No flight path illustration is provided, as we did not detect PLA aircraft operating around Taiwan during this timeframe."

Earlier on Tuesday, the MND detected the presence of six naval vessels operating around its territorial waters.

In a post on X, the MND said, "6 PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. ROC Armed Forces have monitored the situation and responded. No flight path illustration is provided, as we did not detect PLA aircraft operating around Taiwan during this timeframe."

Meanwhile, Focus Taiwan reported how earlier in June, Taiwan's first domestically built submarine departed from the Port of Kaohsiung for its latest round of sea trials that included dive tests.

Citing the Military News Agency, Focus Taiwan said that the trial marked the submarine's 15th sea trial overall and ninth submerged navigation test.

The development comes amid the backdrop of China continuing to increase the intensity of its military activity around Taiwan.

China's claim over Taiwan is a complex issue rooted in historical, political, and legal arguments. Beijing asserts that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China, a viewpoint embedded in national policy and upheld by domestic laws and international statements.

Taiwan, however, maintains a distinct identity, functioning independently with its government, military, and economy. Taiwan's status remains a significant point of international debate, testing the principles of sovereignty, self-determination, and non-interference in international law, as per the United Service Institution of India.

China's claim to Taiwan originates from the Qing Dynasty's annexation of the island in 1683 after defeating Ming loyalist Koxinga.

— ANI

Reader Comments

Priya S

While I understand the historical context, why does China need to send so many naval vessels? It feels like intimidation. Peaceful dialogue is better than military posturing.

Ananya R

India should be cautious. We have our own border issues with China. This Taiwan situation shows how aggressive China can be. We need to strengthen our military and diplomacy. 🇮🇳

Siddharth J

China will never relinquish its claim over Taiwan. It's a matter of national pride and sovereignty. The world should respect the One-China policy.

Kavya N

I worry about the escalation of tensions in our region. The Taiwan issue is not just about China and Taiwan; it affects the entire Indo-Pacific. India should play a role in promoting stability.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Reader Voices

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