Taiwan tracks 19 Chinese aircraft and ships in 24 hours

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Ministry of National Defense (國防部) reported an increase in Chinese military activity around Taiwan, detecting 19 Chinese aircraft and ships near the Taiwan Strait within a 24-hour period ending Tuesday (June 11). This surge included 11 aircraft, with seven crossing the median line into Taiwan's northern and southwestern airspaces.

Increased Military Presence

The ministry noted that from Monday (June 10) morning to Tuesday morning, it tracked eight Chinese vessels in addition to the aircraft. This marks a notable uptick in the presence of the People's Liberation Army (中共解放軍, PLA) in the region. Taiwan's armed forces responded by closely monitoring and readying missile systems, aircraft, and ships to address these activities.

Detailed Surveillance

A detailed activity map released by the defense ministry illustrates that between 7:57 a.m. and 2:28 p.m. on Monday, nine Chinese aircraft were detected in the Taiwan Strait's airspace, five of which crossed the median line, coming within approximately 89 nautical miles of Eluanbi (鵝鑾鼻), the southernmost point of Taiwan. Additionally, two main battle aircraft were spotted near Keelung (基隆), about 89 nautical miles away, between 7:00 a.m. and 10:16 a.m. on the same day.

The military maneuvers by China near Taiwan underscores the ongoing tensions in the region. The Ministry of National Defense's vigilance and preparedness play a crucial role in maintaining the island's security amidst these developments.