Taiwan Security Official Warns of Increased Chinese Military Activities Near Island

The director-general of the Taiwan National Security Bureau, stated that Beijing typically sends out three to four naval ships and ten warplanes on joint patrols close to Taiwan. She described this activity as a "multi-front" effort that also involves economic pressure and a disinformation campaign to put pressure on the island.

To normalize their military activities, Tsai said the patrols were often scheduled to take place with diplomatic activities like foreign MPs visiting the island.

China's Persistent Assertiveness Amid Taiwan's Resistance

TOPSHOT - A man stands on a jetty behind a tourist boat and Chinese flags on Pingtan island, opposite Taiwan, in Chinas southeast Fujian province on April 9, 2023. - China was conducting a second day of military drills around Taiwan on April 9, in what it has called a "stern warning" to the self-ruled island's government following a meeting between its president and the US House speaker.
(Photo : GREG BAKER/AFP via Getty Images)

Regardless of Taiwan's strong resistance, China persists in asserting its claim over the democratically governed island. During a period of raised tensions, Taiwan's National Security Bureau Director-General Tsai Ming-yen disclosed China's increased military operations near Taiwan, such as common joint patrols with warplanes and naval vessels.

Tsai viewed these patrols as an aspect of a larger plan that included economic coercion and misinformation tactics with the intention of applying pressure to Taiwan. He brought attention to the intentional arranging of these patrols, which often corresponded with diplomatic activities and visits by politicians from other countries visiting Taiwan to do business.

In view of the aggressive military exercises, Tsai identified that Taipei needs to maintain constant talks with foreign partners in order to evaluate the possibility of an invasion by China. It came to their attention, however, that the tensions that exist across the Taiwan Strait have not significantly increased at the present time.

A major issue that has led to the escalation of tensions in the area is China's unwavering assertion of sovereignty over Taiwan. In addition to these accusations, Taiwan's air defense identification zones have been subjected to repeated military intrusions, which has further exacerbated the issue, according to The Jerusalem Post.

Taipei Boosts Defense Amid Rising China Tensions

Taipei is looking at its defense tactics as part of its response to the provocations that China has been making. An assessment of the perceived danger caused by China was cited as the reason for the remarks made by Chiu Kuo-cheng, Minister of National Defense, about a boost in the frequency of missile training. It is currently considered vital to undertake these drills in order to improve Taiwan's preparation. Previously, they were carried out at certain times in order to avoid distractions.

In addition to stressing the need of increasing training, Chiu gave his word that the drills will be conducted in accordance with the laws that control the use of munitions. That said, particulars of these restrictions were not specified in any manner.

China's continued military buildup, evident in its decision to raise defense spending by 7.2 percent, underscores its unwavering commitment to bolstering its military capabilities. This move comes despite economic growth forecasts, indicating China's prioritization of military advancement.

The Taiwanese Ministry of Defense has not yet released formal statements in reaction to these recent happenings. Although knowing that tensions continue to exist between Taiwan and China, the situation continues to be constant which shows the persistent problems that are confronting the stability of the area, Big News Network reported.