TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Ministry of National Defense (MND, 國防部) on Tuesday (Nov. 12) reported that the Chinese People's Liberation Army conducted live-fire military exercises in the northern Taiwan Strait near the Matsu Islands. The ministry emphasized its close monitoring of the situation and deployment of forces to address the activities.
The Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese military has established multiple restricted and temporary navigation zones off the coasts of Zhejiang (浙江) and Fujian (福建). The ministry highlighted that the exercise area is a crucial international air and sea route, and the Taiwanese military has dispatched appropriate forces in response.
The ministry released data on the movements of Chinese aircraft and ships, noting that from Monday (Nov. 11) at 6 a.m. to Tuesday (Nov. 12) at 6 a.m., they detected 10 Chinese aircraft, with eight crossing the Taiwan Strait median line. Also, five Chinese naval vessels have continued their operations around the Taiwan Strait.
The ministry stated that the Taiwanese military is using mission aircraft, ships, and shore-based missile systems for stringent monitoring and response. These developments underscore the ongoing tensions in the region, with Taiwan remaining vigilant in safeguarding its airspace and maritime boundaries. As the situation evolves, the ministry's continued updates will be crucial in understanding the broader implications for regional security.