At least 20 Chinese military planes entered Taiwan’s airspace on Friday, according to Taiwan’s defense ministry.
Why does it matter: It is the largest incursion by the Chinese air force since Taiwan’s defense ministry announced almost daily Chinese military exercises in its airspace, according to Reuters.
- A person familiar with Taiwan’s defense planning told Reuters that the Chinese military is simulating an operation against US warships navigating the Bashi Canal.
- China has said the exercises are meant to show its determination to defend the island, which it considers part of Chinese territory, although Taiwan’s status is one of the most sensitive political issues between Washington and Beijing.
The whole picture: Exercises on Friday involved four H-6K bombers with nuclear attack capabilities, 10 J-16 fighter jets and six other military aircraft.
- Taiwan said it warned the planes by radio that they were violating its airspace and that it had implemented air defense missile systems to “monitor the activity” of the flight after the aircraft did not change course.