Taiwan scrambles airforce after detecting Chinese jets

Taipei’s defenses activated in response to Beijing’s latest military activity near the self-governing island

Taiwan’s military forces have reacted to Chinese aircraft and naval vessels that were detected near the self-governing island, including one plane that allegedly crossed into Taipei’s Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ), the Taiwanese defense ministry claimed on Saturday.

Jets, missile systems and naval forces were scrambled after nine Chinese aircraft and two navy ships were detected in and near the Taiwan Strait, according to Taipei. The aircraft allegedly breached the ADIZ in the southwest corner of the zone, the same area where a record 56 Chinese jets flew during exercises on October 4.

Contrary to an allegation by US Senator Robert Menendez, who visited Taiwan last April, the Chinese jets did not cross into Taiwanese airspace. The ADIZ extends far beyond Taipei’s territory, covering the region where Taiwan monitors aircraft for security purposes.

China has ramped up military exercises in the region around Taiwan since August, when US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi defied Beijing’s warnings against visiting Taipei. In response to the row, China cut off military and climate ties with the US and conducted wargames in the Taiwan Strait.

9 PLA aircraft and 2 PLAN vessels around our surrounding region were detected today (Nov. 5, 2022) until 1700(GMT+8). #ROCArmedForces have monitored the situation and responded to these activities with aircraft in CAP, naval vessels, and land-based missile systems. pic.twitter.com/LbB1M57N6D

— 國防部 Ministry of National Defense, R.O.C.