China has suddenly intensified its military preparedness around Taiwan. Beijing has launched large-scale military drills along the northern, southern, and eastern coasts, stating that the exercise is a strong warning against separatism. According to AP News, China is conducting extensive military maneuvers involving land, sea, and air forces.
In response, Taiwan has also deployed warships. The country’s Ministry of Defense stated in a press release that China’s Shandong aircraft carrier group entered Taiwan’s surveillance zone on Monday. As a countermeasure, Taiwan deployed military aircraft, naval ships, and activated its missile defense systems.
China’s military exercises around Taiwan are not new. Similar drills were conducted last year, but they were not given an official name at that time. Notably, China initiated these exercises just before U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s scheduled visit to Asia. The drills are being conducted by the People’s Liberation Army’s (PLA) Eastern Theater Command.
As part of the exercise, China has deployed warships along with its air force and ground troops. The maneuvers aim to completely isolate Taiwan, targeting strategic locations from land and sea while testing missile defense capabilities.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Department of State has expressed concern, stating that China’s military activities pose a “threat” to regional security. On the second day of China’s military drills near Taiwan’s waters and airspace, the U.S. issued an official statement condemning the action.