Taiwan detects 42 Chinese military aircraft around country

Since China announced the start of military drills, Taiwan reported that it had identified 42 warplane breaches into its air defence zone, according to the country’s Defence Ministry.

“Since 0900 (UTC+8) today (Aug. 19), the R.O.C. Armed Forces detected 42 PLA aircraft (including KJ-500, Y-9, J-10, J-11, J-16, SU-30 etc.), 26 of which crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait. Additionally, the PLA aircraft conducted joint combat patrol with 8 PLAN vessels,” Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defence said on X. 

“The R.O.C. Armed Forces are closely monitoring the situation with our ISR system and have deployed CAP aircraft, naval vessels, and land-based missile systems in response,” it added. 

Chinese military exercises and joint air and sea patrols were conducted around Taiwan, according to a report, as a “stern warning” to “Taiwan independence” separatists against collaborating with foreign forces.

The ministry added that it would send the proper troops to respond in line with the “Regulations on the Handling of Emergencies during the Period of Regular Combat Readiness of the National Army” in order to defend liberty, democracy, and the Republic of China’s sovereignty through effective measures.
The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has continued to dispatch planes and ships to harass in recent years, according to Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defence, which has seriously harmed regional security.

“Launching a military exercise under pretext this time not only does not help the peace and stability of the Taiwan Strait but also highlights its militaristic mentality and confirms the hegemonic nature of military expansion,” the statement read. 
“The Ministry of National Defence emphasized that in the face of repeated advances by the Communist army, all officers and soldiers of the national army are ready to fight, uphold the strong will of “preparing for war, not seeking war, responding to war, not avoiding war”, and have the ability, determination, and confidence to ensure national security,” it read. 

When the situation on both sides of the strait is terrible, Taiwan urged its citizens to play a strong backing and build a common consensus. Together, the armed forces and people create a vital force for defensive operations and collectively defend this country.

Also read: Despite tensions, Biden plans to meet Xi “this fall”

Catch all the Latest Business News, Breaking News Events and Latest News Updates on NewsX.