Chinese Naval Formation Sails Near Taiwan Amid Heightened Tensions

On Wednesday, a Chinese naval formation led by the Liaoning aircraft carrier navigated waters northeast of Taiwan before heading towards Japan’s Yonaguni Island, according to Taiwan’s government. In response, Taiwan’s defense ministry stated that its armed forces have been closely monitoring and appropriately responding to the movements.

The naval activity followed a recent incident where a US P-8A anti-submarine patrol aircraft flew through the Taiwan Strait. The Chinese military, which closely monitored the aircraft, reaffirmed its commitment to defending national sovereignty and maintaining regional stability.

Beijing regards Taiwan, which operates independently, as part of its territory and claims jurisdiction over the Taiwan Strait. The Chinese aircraft carriers Liaoning and Shandong have previously traversed the strait as part of increased military and political pressure on Taiwan.

Taiwan’s military has reported frequent encounters with Chinese military assets, including warplanes, drones, and naval vessels. Over a 24-hour period ending at 6:00 am local time on Wednesday, Taiwan’s defense ministry detected nine Chinese military aircraft, 13 naval vessels, and one official ship around the island.