China recently conducted a live-firing military exercise in close proximity to Taiwan, just a week after embarking on a large-scale drill that encircled the island. This marks a significant increase in Chinese military activity in the region, reflecting China’s growing claims over the self-governed island.
On Monday, Beijing announced that an area around Niushan, located approximately 105 kilometers from Taiwan, would be off-limits for drills for four hours starting at 09:00 local time on Tuesday. In response, Taiwan’s Premier Cho Jung-tai criticized these exercises, emphasizing that they threaten regional stability. “Regardless of the scale of the drill, such activities should not be frequent or conducted close to Taiwan, as they only serve to escalate tensions unnecessarily,” he stated.
While Taiwanese authorities refer to these drills as routine, military analysts believe that the timing and location send a clear message from China to Taiwan. The exercises are part of a broader strategy that involves regular incursions by Chinese vessels and aircraft into Taiwanese air and maritime territory, aiming to normalize these actions and exert prolonged pressure on Taiwan.
As tensions rise, Taiwan’s allies, particularly the United States, have ramped up their military maneuvers. Historically, the U.S. Pacific fleet has been the sole foreign naval force patrolling the Taiwan Strait to uphold freedom of navigation. However, recent patrols have included ships from other allies, such as Canada, Germany, Australia, and Japan, showcasing increased international involvement in the region. Notably, over the weekend, U.S. and Canadian warships navigated through these waters.
Analysts interpret this increase in military activity as a significant signal from both China and the United States. While China asserts its claims over Taiwan, the U.S. is reinforcing its support for the island. A U.S. official acknowledged a desire to lower tensions with Beijing, especially given current U.S. engagements in the Middle East and Europe. Nevertheless, the long-term threat posed by China remains a primary concern for U.S. officials.
Last Monday’s military exercise saw China deploy a record 153 military aircraft, alongside warships and coast guard vessels, simulating a comprehensive attack on Taiwan by land, sea, and air. This surge in activity followed Taiwanese President William Lai’s strong declaration on National Day, where he pledged to resist any form of annexation or encroachment on Taiwan’s sovereignty. President Lai asserted that China and Taiwan are “not subordinate to each other” and stressed that Beijing “has no right to represent Taiwan.” China has consistently threatened to take Taiwan by force if necessary, viewing President Lai as a key figure advocating for the island’s independence.
