At least 20 Chinese military aircraft entered Taiwan’s airspace on Friday, according to the Taiwan Ministry of Defense.
Why does it matter: It is the largest incursion by the Chinese Air Force since the Taiwan Ministry of Defense announced Chinese military exercises almost daily in its airspace, according to Reuters.
- A person familiar with Taiwan’s defense planning told Reuters that the Chinese military was simulating an operation against American warships navigating the Bashi Canal.
- China said the exercises aim 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 big picture: Friday’s exercises involved four H-6K bombers, which have nuclear attack capability, 10 J-16 fighter jets and six other military planes.
- Taiwan said it radioed the planes that they were violating their airspace and deployed air defense missile systems to “monitor the activity” of the flight after the aircraft did not change course.