TAIPEI (TVBS News) — China might conduct the "Joint Sword-C military exercise" (聯合利劍) on Dec. 13, National Security Bureau (NSB, 國安局), Taiwan's intelligence agency, Director Tsai Ming-yen (蔡明彥) disclosed Wednesday (Dec. 3). The exercise would coincide with the National Memorial Day for the Nanjing Massacre, a significant historical commemoration in China. Tsai emphasized Taiwan's commitment to collaborating with international allies to assess whether China's activities are provocative.
Tsai noted November and December mark the peak season for China's military exercises in the region. Taiwan will work closely with national security intelligence agencies and the Ministry of National Defense (MND) to monitor Chinese military movements. Tsai revealed eight countries, including the United States, Japan, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Vietnam, the United Kingdom, and France, have navigated the Taiwan Strait 12 times this year.
Tsai highlighted two of these countries conducted joint operations while passing through the Taiwan Strait during their transits. The operations underscore the international community's commitment to peace and stability in the region through freedom of navigation activities. Taiwan activates international intelligence exchanges when necessary to coordinate monitoring efforts and share information with allied nations.
Tsai stressed China employs a follow every ship principle, deploying naval forces to shadow foreign vessels transiting the strait. China sometimes mobilizes air forces to simulate attacks against international vessels passing through the Taiwan Strait waters. This approach demonstrates China's military presence and dominance in the strategically important waterway connecting the East and South China Seas. ◼