Taiwan detects heightened Chinese military activity around its territory
Taipei, June 20
Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence on Saturday recorded 5 sorties of PLA aircraft, 9 PLAN vessels and 5 official ships operating around its territory.
In a post on X, it said that Taiwan detected movements upto 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today.
"5 sorties of PLA aircraft, 9 PLAN vessels and 5 official ships operating around Taiwan detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 1 out of 5 sorties crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's southwestern part ADIZ. #ROCArmedForces have monitored the situation and responded," it said.
On Friday, MND detected the presence of eight Chinese naval vessels operating around its territorial waters.
The MND monitored the situation and responded.
In a post on X, the MND said, "8 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 Thursday, Taiwan detected the presence of eight naval vessels around itself.
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
As an Indian, I see parallels with our own situation in Kashmir. Beijing is firm on sovereignty, and we understand that. But the military activity near Taiwan's ADIZ is concerning—it could escalate. Both sides need cool heads. India has always advocated for peaceful resolution of disputes. Let's hope China and Taiwan find a way forward without conflict.
Interesting how the article mentions the historical context from Qing to Japanese rule and then the civil war. But calling Taiwan "de facto independent" while avoiding formal independence feels like a dangerous game. China's patrols are predictable—they're asserting their claim. I just hope the US doesn't get dragged into another unnecessary confrontation in the Pacific. 🌏
I pray for peace in the region. As an Indian, I know how border tensions can spiral—we have our own issues with China along the LAC. But Taiwan's situation is unique. The median line crossing by PLA aircraft is a serious escalation. Both sides should de-escalate before something unfortunate happens. Diplomacy over force, always. 🙏
The article's historical background is helpful. But I'm tired of seeing India getting dragged into this narrative. We have our own relationship with both China and Taiwan—it's not our fight. Let Taiwan and China sort it out with their own talks. India should stay neutral and focus on regional trade. Just my two paisas.
The PLA activity numbers are up from previous days—7 sorties today versus 12 yesterday, but the crossing over median line is persistent. That's the red line. China says it's protecting territorial integrity,
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.