China has been conducting close-proximity flights with fighter planes near Taiwan in the lead-up to a significant visit by Donald Trump, according to officials on the island. The Taiwanese defense ministry observed a sudden increase in Chinese military aircraft near Taiwan after a noticeable decrease in flights over the past two weeks, causing concern among top military personnel.
On Saturday, a total of 25 jets were detected, with 16 of them breaching Taiwan’s Air Defense Identification Zone in the northern, central, and southwestern regions. Additionally, seven naval vessels were seen in proximity to the island.
The surge in aircraft activity following a recent drop coincides with speculation regarding Beijing’s intentions amid escalating global tensions, raising suspicions of a potential invasion of Taiwan. Experts noted that while decreased flight operations have occurred during significant events, the recent decline was more pronounced than usual, possibly indicating a shift in China’s military training strategy.
The escalation in military maneuvers occurs ahead of US President Donald Trump’s upcoming visit to China, scheduled for March 31 to April 2. Despite the White House confirmation of the visit, Beijing has not officially verified the dates.
Observers suggest that the reduction in flights may be linked to China’s military modernization efforts, possibly indicating a transition to a new joint training model among its armed forces. China has consistently expressed its intent to use force if necessary to annex Taiwan, with regular sightings of warplanes and navy vessels near the island.
US intelligence has previously highlighted 2027 as a target year for a potential invasion, with Chinese President Xi Jinping reportedly instructing the People’s Liberation Army to be capable of seizing Taiwan by the PLA’s centenary in 2027. In response, Taiwan has intensified its defense preparations, including military drills and mandatory conscription, in anticipation of a potential conflict.
Taiwan’s Defense Minister, Wellington Koo, emphasized the continued presence of China’s navy in nearby waters despite the decrease in military flights. The longstanding political division between China and Taiwan dates back to 1949, following the Communist Party’s victory in the Chinese civil war, prompting the Nationalist Party’s retreat to Taiwan, which later transformed into a democratic state.
Beijing asserts that Taiwan’s government is illegitimate and aims to reunify with the island, claiming it as part of its sovereign territory.
