Taiwan Reports Increased Chinese Military Activity Following US Arms Deal

Taiwan’s defense ministry reported on Sunday that Chinese warplanes and naval vessels conducted a “combat patrol” near the island, coinciding with heightened tensions following a recent $2 billion arms sale by the United States. This arms package includes advanced defense systems aimed at bolstering Taiwan’s military capabilities amid ongoing threats from Beijing.

US Legal Obligations to Taiwan

Despite lacking formal diplomatic relations, the United States is legally bound to support Taiwan in its defense efforts. This obligation stems from the Taiwan Relations Act, which ensures that Taiwan receives military equipment and services to maintain its self-defense capabilities. The Pentagon’s recent approval of the arms deal marks a significant development, particularly as it includes an advanced air defense missile system that has been tested in combat scenarios, such as the conflict in Ukraine.

Details of the Chinese Military Activities

According to Taiwan’s defense ministry, 19 Chinese military aircraft, including Su-30 fighter jets, were detected conducting a “joint combat readiness patrol” around Taiwan on Sunday. The Chinese military maneuvers took place in various airspace regions, including the north, center, southwest, and east of Taiwan. In response to these activities, Taiwanese defense forces were deployed to monitor and ensure the integrity of their airspace.

China’s Response to US Arms Sales

Although China regularly conducts military exercises near Taiwan, this incident marks the first significant activity following a recent round of extensive war games conducted by Beijing. In a statement issued late Saturday, China’s foreign ministry condemned the US arms sales, asserting that it firmly opposes such actions and has communicated its concerns to Washington. China urged the US to cease its military support for Taiwan and to refrain from actions that could destabilize the region. The ministry declared, “China will take resolute countermeasures to safeguard its national sovereignty and territorial integrity,” although it did not specify the nature of these countermeasures.

Taiwan’s Commitment to Self-Defense

China has escalated its military presence around Taiwan over the past five years, particularly as the island’s government has rejected Beijing’s sovereignty claims. In light of the recent arms deal, Taiwan’s government has expressed gratitude for the support, highlighting that this is the 17th arms package approved by the US during President Joe Biden’s administration. Taiwan’s foreign ministry stated, “In response to China’s threats, Taiwan is committed to protecting its homeland and will continue to demonstrate its determination to defend itself.”