In a significant escalation of military activity, China deployed 59 warplanes and nine warships near Taiwan, marking the highest number of Chinese aircraft observed since October. This incident highlights the ongoing tensions between China and Taiwan, with China viewing Taiwan as part of its territory and Taiwan maintaining its independence.
Background: Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ)
Taiwan’s ADIZ, established by the United States in 1954, covers most of the Taiwan Strait, parts of Fujian, Zhejiang, and Jiangxi, and part of the East China Sea. The zone allows Taiwan to monitor and control approaching aircraft, though it is not part of Taiwan’s territorial airspace under international law. A theoretical median line, defined in 1955, divides the Taiwan Strait, but China does not recognize it and has increasingly crossed it with military aircraft.
Recent Incursions
- March 18, 2025: China sent 59 warplanes and nine vessels near Taiwan, with more than two dozen aircraft crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan responded by scrambling fighter jets and deploying missile defense systems.
- 2024 Overview: Incursions by Chinese aircraft into Taiwan’s ADIZ reached unprecedented levels, with over half of detected aircraft crossing the median line on most days.
Implications and Responses
The increased military activity by China is seen as a form of coercion aimed at influencing Taiwan’s political stance and testing its defenses. Taiwan has responded by enhancing its military readiness, conducting drills, and deploying defense systems to counter potential threats.
International Context
The situation is further complicated by China’s perception of U.S. involvement in the region. China often cites U.S. diplomatic visits and military cooperation with Taiwan as reasons for its military exercises near the island. The U.S. has maintained a policy of strategic ambiguity towards Taiwan, providing military aid while not explicitly committing to its defense.
Key Takeaways
- Increased Military Activity: China’s deployment of 59 warplanes near Taiwan marks a significant escalation.
- ADIZ Incursions: Frequent crossings of the median line by Chinese aircraft challenge Taiwan’s defenses.
- Taiwanese Response: Enhanced military readiness and international cooperation are key to countering Chinese coercion.
- International Implications: The situation is influenced by U.S.-China relations and perceptions of U.S. involvement in the region.
FAQs
Q: What is Taiwan’s ADIZ?
- A: Taiwan’s ADIZ is a self-declared area where Taiwan monitors and controls approaching aircraft, though it is not part of its territorial airspace.
Q: Why does China send military aircraft near Taiwan?
- A: China views these actions as a response to perceived support for Taiwanese independence and as a means to assert its claim over Taiwan.
Q: How does Taiwan respond to these incursions?
- A: Taiwan responds by scrambling fighter jets, deploying naval vessels, and activating missile defense systems to monitor and deter Chinese military activity.
A Delicate Balance
