Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defence (MND) has reported a significant spike in Chinese military activity, with 61 sorties of PLA aircraft and multiple naval vessels detected near Taiwan’s territory in a single morning.
Between early morning and 8:15 am (UTC+8), several aircraft breached the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan’s Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ), raising fresh concerns about rising regional tensions.
“27 of these sorties, including J-16 fighters and KJ-500 surveillance aircraft, entered Taiwan’s ADIZ and coordinated drills with PLAN vessels,” said Taiwan’s MND on X (formerly Twitter).
Rising Frequency of PLA Intrusions Across the Strait
Earlier the same morning, MND noted 34 other Chinese aircraft crossing the median line, with some entering the northern, southwestern, and southeastern sectors of Taiwan’s ADIZ. Additionally, 9 Chinese warships and one government ship were operating in nearby waters.
This follows an earlier detection on Monday of four PLA aircraft, eight PLAN ships, and two official vessels in the region.
Taiwan’s armed forces responded by scrambling aircraft, deploying air defense systems, and actively tracking the movement.
Taiwan Enhancing Military Readiness Amid Escalating Threats
Taiwan’s defense leadership emphasized that combat readiness and deterrence are being prioritized. Defense Minister Wellington Koo stated that Taiwan’s military is undergoing a comprehensive transformation, especially in light of potential prolonged conflict scenarios.
“We must prepare for multiple assaults or even a war of endurance,” said Koo. He highlighted the need for stockpiling weapons and revamping training protocols for both conscripts and senior personnel.
Focus on Asymmetric Warfare and Annual War Drills
Taiwan is adapting an asymmetric warfare approach to offset China’s numerical superiority. This includes enhanced use of air defense units, unmanned drones, and mobile radar systems. The shift follows the extension of compulsory military service to one year, starting in 2024.
The annual Han Kuang exercises are scheduled from July 9–18, extending beyond the traditional five-day format. The longer duration will allow Taiwan’s military to test real-time responses, identify strategic gaps, and reinforce defense plans against simulated attacks from the PLA.
