Taiwan deploys missile systems as Chinese vessels spotted off coast
Taiwan’s Defense Ministry has deployed land-based missile systems in response to the growing presence of China in its waters and airspace.
The Ministry says 45 Chinese aircraft and nine vessels have been detected by 6am local time this morning.
“27 of the detected aircraft had crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan’s Air Defense Identification Zone,” a statement said.
“Armed forces have monitored the situation and tasked CAP aircraft, Navy vessels, and land-based missile systems to respond to these activities.”
A video sourced by Asia Markets shows the Taiwan Navy (known as the Republic of China Navy) shadowing Chinese vessels, which are reportedly taking part and air and sea drills around Taiwan.
Taiwan has described the activities as “provocations” and say they’ll continue to monitor them closely.
“We seek neither escalation nor conflict, but we do not bow to coercion,” the Ministry of Defense said.
“We have the strongest determination, capability (and) confidence to ensure security.”
