China Intrudes on Taiwan’s Air Defense Zone

Seventy-one Chinese aircraft invaded Taiwan’s defense zone from December 25 to 26, making it China’s largest air intrusion on Taiwan.

• 47 aircraft crossed the Taiwan Strait’s median line, a buffer line in Taiwan’s defense zone.
• The planes were fighter jets, drones, electronic-warfare aircraft and anti-submarine aircraft.
• At the same time, seven Chinese navy ships were also seen approaching Taiwan.

‘Provocation’: The belligerent display came just days after the United States passed a defense authorization bill that gives Taiwan some $10 billion in military grants for the first time and speeds up the weapons procurement process for Taiwan.

• China condemned the move and then announced on Sunday that it would perform “joint combat readiness patrols and joint firepower strike drills” in response to the “provocation.”

This is a resolute response to the current escalation of collusion and provocation from the United States and Taiwan. Theatre forces will take all necessary measures to resolutely defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
—Eastern Theatre Command of China’s People’s Liberation Army

China vs. U.S.: The only factor restraining China from taking control of Taiwan is America’s support for the island. However, China is increasingly becoming bolder toward Taiwan and understands that Americans are increasingly war-weary and divided. Does China believe America has lost interest in protecting Taiwan? Will Chinese determination outlast American support? To learn more, read “Taiwan Betrayal.”