China's recent surge of military activity around Taiwan, including sending dozens of warplanes into the island's air defence identification zone, has raised concerns among analysts about the implications for Taiwan's security and cross-strait stability, report CNN on July 14. The People's Liberation Army (PLA) aircraft, including fighter jets, bombers, and reconnaissance drones, crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered key regions of Taiwan's ADIZ. China claims Taiwan as its territory and has not ruled out using force to take control of the island.
This increased PLA activity poses multiple challenges for Taiwan. It puts a strain on Taiwan's military systems and equipment when responding to these operations, requiring maintenance and readiness restoration. Furthermore, the psychological impact of the surge aims to diminish the will of Taiwan's population to resist a potential takeover by Beijing. However, the sustained presence of PLA warplanes and ships can also create complacency among Taiwan's defenders and potential external reinforcements, potentially jeopardising their readiness and response.
The situation presents a dilemma for the United States, which has committed to supporting Taiwan's defence through arms sales and, in the event of an invasion, potential military intervention. However, if a significant number of PLA planes and ships are already stationed around the island, it may limit the effectiveness of a U.S. response. The timing of the response becomes crucial, as delayed reactions could reduce the margin of advantage and success for U.S. forces.
U.S. aircraft conducts mission in the Taiwan Strait
China recently conducted three days of intensive military drills around Taiwan, aimed at testing the combat capabilities of its integrated military forces and deterring potential interference from external forces. The exercises were carried out in April, and the People's Liberation Army (PLA) stated its readiness to combat any attempts related to "Taiwan independence" or foreign interference. The drills signify China's determination to safeguard its national sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity.
The recent military activities in the Taiwan Strait were not limited to the PLA. The US Navy's P-8A reconnaissance jet transited the strait, emphasizing the United States' commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific region. The US military stated that its operations adhere to international law.
Amidst these developments, both China and the US have engaged in exchanges of rhetoric. The PLA accused the US military of exaggerating the situation, while US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin emphasized the importance of maintaining a credible deterrence in the Indo-Pacific region.
The situation in the Taiwan Strait remains highly sensitive and raises concerns about the potential for confrontation between China and the US. While Austin does not foresee an imminent or unavoidable conflict involving Taiwan, he stresses the need for a combat-capable force to ensure credible deterrence.
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