China has been conducting fighter plane maneuvers in close proximity to Taiwan just before an upcoming visit by Donald Trump, according to officials on the island. The Taiwanese defense ministry observed a significant increase in Chinese military aircraft near the island following a recent decrease in flights, raising concerns among top military officials.
On Saturday, a total of 25 jets were detected, with 16 of them entering various Air Defense Identification Zones around Taiwan. Additionally, seven naval ships were sighted in the vicinity of the island. Speculation has arisen about whether Beijing might exploit global tensions to carry out a long-planned invasion of Taiwan.
While fluctuations in flight activities have occurred during significant events in the past, this recent decline coinciding with the Chinese Communist Party’s annual meeting has drawn more attention. The timing of these military movements also aligns with the upcoming visit by US President Donald Trump to China.
Some experts suggest that the reduced flight operations may indicate a shift towards a new phase in China’s military training and modernization efforts, possibly involving a new joint training model among its forces. China has consistently expressed intent to take over Taiwan by force if necessary, with frequent sightings of warplanes and navy vessels heading towards the island.
US intelligence has raised concerns about a potential invasion around 2027, with President Xi Jinping reportedly instructing the People’s Liberation Army to be prepared for seizing Taiwan by the PLA’s 100th anniversary in 2027. Taiwan has been enhancing its defense preparedness in anticipation of a possible invasion scenario, including rigorous military drills and compulsory conscription programs.
Defence Minister Wellington Koo highlighted the continued naval activities of China in the nearby waters despite the decrease in military flights. The longstanding separation between China and Taiwan dates back to 1949, following the Communist Party’s victory in the civil war, leading to the exodus of Nationalist forces to Taiwan, which later transformed into a democratic entity.
Beijing has persistently refuted the legitimacy of Taiwan’s government, asserting its intention to “reunify” with the island, which it regards as part of its sovereign territory.