The Ministry of National Defense in Taiwan stated on Tuesday (December 3) that they are closely monitoring the movements of the Chinese aircraft carrier and continuously evaluating the military activities of the mainland. There are reports indicating that Beijing may initiate a new round of military exercises as early as this weekend.
Ministry of National Defense spokesperson Sun Lifang mentioned during a routine press conference that the Taiwanese military has maintained control over the location of the Chinese aircraft carrier “Liaoning,” but specific details cannot be disclosed. Sun Lifang stated, “The Ministry of National Defense maintains a high level of vigilance towards the enemy situation and takes this issue very seriously. We are fully prepared and not afraid of any threats.”
When asked whether China might launch military exercises during or after President Lai’s visit, Sun Lifang did not provide a direct response. He emphasized that the Taiwanese military makes thorough assessments of the enemy situation and makes appropriate response decisions based on various indicators to deal with potential threats.
Sun Lifang emphasized that ensuring Taiwan’s overall defense security is the Ministry of National Defense’s unshirkable responsibility. The military conducts meticulous assessments of all enemy situations, and there are detailed operational mechanisms in place. Overall, the Taiwanese military is capable, determined, and confident in ensuring the security of the Taiwan Strait.
Hu Zhonghua, Deputy Director of the Joint Intelligence Research Center, mentioned that the military utilizes joint intelligence surveillance methods to closely monitor the actions of the Chinese military, incorporating past threats from China into the early warning signs. The assessment of Chinese military actions involves confidential intelligence sources and channels, hence cannot be elaborated.
China has long claimed sovereignty over democratic Taiwan and has conducted two war exercises in the Taiwan Strait this year, deploying ships or aircraft near Taiwan’s vicinity. Recently, Chinese authorities have expressed disapproval over the U.S. allowing Lai to visit Hawaii.
Since taking office, President Lai has rejected Beijing’s sovereignty claims but has expressed a desire for peaceful relations and extended invitations for dialogue, all of which have been declined by Beijing.
According to Reuters, three sources mentioned that based on the latest intelligence assessment, there is a high likelihood of China holding military exercises this weekend. The situation in Taiwan’s surrounding waters has been described as “busier than usual,” potentially indicating preparations for military exercises by China.
Sources revealed that a Russian naval fleet heading north approached an area adjacent to Taiwan (24 nautical miles off the southeast coast of Taiwan, approximately 45 kilometers), conducting simulated joint attacks with Chinese destroyers against “foreign ships and aircraft.”
The Russian fleet entered the East China Sea on Tuesday and is expected to continue joint military exercises with the Chinese navy moving northward.
Simultaneously, China has deployed nearly 40 ships in the region. The aircraft carrier fleet led by Liaoning is active in the East China Sea, while other navy and coast guard forces are in the South China Sea. Sources suggest that “China may be deploying exercises after President Lai’s Pacific itinerary concludes.”
The article points out that for the Chinese military, this unusual winter military exercise is aimed at enhancing preparedness to launch attacks on Taiwan swiftly when necessary.
Sources added, “China has been honing its capabilities for nighttime operations, and the ability to operate in adverse weather conditions is another skill they need to master.”
The Chinese aircraft carrier Liaoning participated in military exercises near Taiwan on October 14 this year. The Japanese Ministry of Defense also confirmed operations of carrier-based aircraft from Liaoning during the previous exercise.