Taiwan on high alert amid Chinese naval presence, airspace restrictions

Taiwan’s military reported a high-alert situation and launched combat readiness drills after Chinese warships and coast guard vessels were detected in the waters around the island.

The exercises were also in response to Beijing’s army restricting the airspace off the Chinese coast.

“In response to these actions by the PLA (People’s Liberation Army), the MND (Ministry of National Defense) has initiated combat readiness drills, factoring in enemy threats, weather conditions, and tactical positioning,” the defense ministry said in a statement, adding that military units were on “high” alert.

There was no immediate public announcement by the PLA or Chinese state media about increased military activity around Taiwan.

China insists Taiwan is part of its own territory and regularly deploys fighter jets and navy ships to press its claims of sovereignty.

There has been intense speculation about the possibility of China launching military drills in response to Taiwan President Lai Ching-te’s Pacific tour last week, which included two stopovers on U.S. soil.