China conducts large-scale military drills near Taiwan

Sharjah 24 – AFP: China sent its army, navy, air, and rocket forces to surround Taiwan on Tuesday for large-scale drills aimed at practising "precision strikes" and a blockade of the self-ruled island. Taiwan responded by deploying its own aircraft, ships, and land-based missile systems, accusing Beijing of being the world’s "biggest troublemaker."

Rising tensions and US involvement

The drills come after US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth stated that the United States would ensure deterrence across the Taiwan Strait and called Beijing "aggressive." China has consistently opposed US support for Taiwan, which it considers part of its territory.

Massive military presence around Taiwan

The Chinese drills involved 21 warships, including the Shandong aircraft carrier group, along with 71 aircraft and four coast guard vessels. This is the highest number of warships and aircraft detected near Taiwan since May and October of the previous year. No live fire was reported during the exercises.

Beijing's stern warning

Beijing stated the drills aimed to send a "stern warning and forceful deterrence" to separatists in Taiwan. The military exercises included sea-air combat readiness patrols, joint superiority seizures, and blockade operations on key areas and sea lanes.

Escalating tensions and military speculation

Tensions have escalated since Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te took office in May 2024. Analysts suggest that China may prefer a blockade over an all-out invasion due to the risks involved in a large-scale military deployment. China has carried out several large-scale exercises around Taiwan in recent years, often described as rehearsals for a potential blockade and seizure of the island.

The US and Taiwan's strategic importance

Taiwan, a leading semiconductor chip manufacturer, is a flashpoint in US-China relations. The United States has long maintained "strategic ambiguity" regarding military intervention to defend Taiwan, but recent concerns have risen over US President Trump's willingness to protect the island. The dispute between China and Taiwan dates back to 1949, with Taiwan still claiming sovereignty despite Beijing’s opposition. Only 11 countries and the Vatican recognise Taiwan’s statehood claim.