Taiwan conducts missile drills in response to military intrusions by China
On Tuesday morning, Taiwan conducted an air defense test, deploying both US-made Patriot missiles and its own anti-aircraft artillery systems, as it announced plans to intensify training efforts in response to what it perceives as military “intrusions” by China near the self-ruled island.
Beijing asserts its claim over Taiwan as part of its territory and has repeatedly stated its willingness to use force to bring the island under its control.
Taiwan’s Air Force Command confirmed the exercise, which took place between 5 and 7 am (2100-2300 GMT Monday), involving domestically produced Sky Bow missiles, as well as US-made Patriot surface-to-air missiles, alongside army and navy units.
The purpose of the exercise, according to the Air Force Command, was to test the coordination of joint air defense operations among the island’s three military branches. They reported that the exercise proceeded smoothly.
Amidst what Taiwan perceives as frequent incursions by Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) aircraft and vessels into its surrounding airspace and waters, the Air Force affirmed its commitment to enhancing training intensity to address potential threats.
Taiwan maintains its rejection of Beijing’s territorial claim, and its president-elect, Vice President Lai Ching-te, who won the country’s January election, is viewed as a “dangerous separatist” by China.
In the 24 hours leading up to 6 am Tuesday (2200 GMT Monday), Taiwan’s defense ministry reported the presence of 13 Chinese aircraft and seven navy vessels in the vicinity of the island. This comes after Taiwan detected 36 Chinese military aircraft around the island in a 24-hour window last week, marking the highest single-day number so far this year.
