China’s fresh military manoeuvres near Taiwan have lifted eyebrows, with defence officers from the self-governed island giving stern cautions regarding the potential consequences of these activities. September 2024 has noticed notable escalations, especially as Beijing has executed multiple drills simulating blockades and attacks on Taiwanese territories, dispatching military aircraft and naval vessels repeatedly across the Taiwan Strait.
Taiwan’s Defense Minister Wellington Koo said recently,
“A blockade would be regarded as war according to international law,”
highlighting the gravity of China’s military exercises. His comments reflect the heightened uncertainties sparked by China’s increasing power over Taiwan, which Beijing argues as its own.
During these exercises, the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) committed not only to traditional military drills but also simulated blocking of Taiwan, with specific exercises anointed “Joint Sword-2024B.” These drills sought to practise and demonstrate the ability to seal off key maritime and air routes around Taiwan, which is especially concerning for the island’s security as about one-fifth of global shipping traverses these waters.
Reports suggest China’s military pledged 153 aircraft on one day alone alongside its warships, showcasing its growing ability and willingness to launch power. The exercises have also included increased attacks of Chinese military vessels and aircraft near Taiwanese airspace, employing them regularly as part of what analysts define as “grey zone warfare,” which sought to normalize military sight close to Taiwan’s borders.
While Taiwan strengthens relations with nations like the United States, which has offered military support by conducting freedom of navigation functions through the Taiwan Strait, the tension remains tangible. The U.S. has not only dispatched warships through the Strait but has also cooperated with other allies, like Canada and Australia, to perform joint naval operations as part of what is referred to as high-visibility operations sought to counter Chinese military advances.
These outcomes have not gone overlooked internationally; last month, Germany joined the ranks of countries sailing warships via the Strait, marking a shift toward a more powerful Western military presence and concentration within the Asia-Pacific territory as reaction protocols ramp up against what many notice as potential aggression from China.
The imminent discussions about establishing defensive techniques are occurring against the backdrop of China’s extended diplomatic pressure over Taiwan, with recent steps to woo away Taiwan’s allies. Illustrations of this include South Africa’s demand for Taiwan to relocate its liaison office outside of Pretoria, which Taipei firmly denied as undue stress from China.
China has historically considered Taiwan as a breakaway province, and its dedication to reunifying the island with the continent has become more enunciated under President Xi Jinping’s regime. This latest string of military displays is arranged as both practices for potential military action and force against Taiwan, backing the narrative of China’s unyielding position on sovereignty over the island.
