Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defence (MND) on Monday detected the presence of seven Chinese naval vessels and three official ships operating around its territorial waters, as military activity around the island continues to draw attention.
The MND said the vessels were tracked up to 6 am (local time), adding that Taiwan’s armed forces monitored the situation and responded accordingly.
In a post on X, the MND said, “7 PLAN vessels and 3 official ships operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. ROC Armed Forces have monitored the situation and responded. No flight path illustration is provided, as we did not detect PLA aircraft operating around Taiwan during this timeframe.”
Earlier detection of Chinese vessels
The latest development came a day after Taiwan reported detecting six Chinese naval vessels around the island.
In a post on X on Sunday, the MND said, “6 PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. ROC Armed Forces have monitored the situation and responded. No flight path illustration is provided, as we did not detect PLA aircraft operating around Taiwan during this timeframe.”
Meanwhile, Focus Taiwan reported that Taiwan’s first domestically built submarine departed from the Port of Kaohsiung earlier in June for another round of sea trials, including dive tests.
Citing the Military News Agency, Focus Taiwan said the trial marked the submarine’s 15th sea trial and ninth submerged navigation test.
China-Taiwan tensions continue
The submarine trials and increased naval activity come as China continues to intensify its military operations around Taiwan.
China’s claim over Taiwan remains rooted in historical, political, and legal arguments, with Beijing asserting that the island is an inseparable part of China.
Taiwan, however, maintains a distinct identity and operates with its own government, military and economy. The island’s status remains a major international issue linked to debates over sovereignty, self-determination and non-interference.
China’s claim over Taiwan traces back to the Qing Dynasty’s annexation of the island in 1683 after defeating Ming loyalist Koxinga.