Taiwan’s defense ministry reported on Saturday that it is closely monitoring “waves” of missile tests conducted by China in its far northern region of Inner Mongolia. The ministry stated that these test launches by China’s Rocket Force began at 4 a.m. (2000 GMT on Friday), with multiple rounds detected.
Democratically governed Taiwan, which Beijing claims as its own territory, maintains vigilant observation of Chinese military activities, particularly around the island. Official details regarding China’s internal military exercises are rarely disclosed by Taiwan.
The Rocket Force, responsible for China’s conventional and nuclear missile arsenal, operates from Inner Mongolia, approximately 2,000 km (1,200 miles) from Taiwan. Taiwan’s defense forces are actively monitoring the situation, with air defense forces placed on alert status.
China’s defense ministry did not respond to requests for comment outside of regular office hours. In the past, China has conducted missile tests and military maneuvers around Taiwan to express displeasure or assert its territorial claims.
Taiwan operates advanced radar stations on the peaks of its central mountain range, allowing extensive surveillance into China, according to security sources. Relations between Taiwan and China have grown tense since the inauguration of Taiwan President Lai Ching-te in May, whom Beijing labels a “separatist.” China has escalated military pressure and conducted frequent war games in response.
President Lai has consistently proposed dialogue with China, yet these offers have been consistently rebuffed. He rejects Beijing’s sovereignty assertions, emphasizing that Taiwan’s future should be determined solely by its people.
The recent missile tests underscore ongoing tensions between Taiwan and China, highlighting the sensitive geopolitical dynamics in the region.