TAIPEI: Taipei’s defence ministry reported a record six Chinese balloons detected around Taiwan, heightening security concerns.
Of these, five were observed near the northern coastal city of Keelung, while one flew directly above the island near southern Pingtung county. The balloons were detected at altitudes ranging from 15,000 to 17,000 feet, marking the highest number reported since the defence ministry began regular releases of balloon sighting data in December.
China claims Taiwan as part of its territory and has not ruled out the use of force to bring the self-governed island under its control. In recent years, China has escalated military pressure, frequently deploying warplanes and naval vessels around Taiwan. The balloon sightings follow Taiwan’s presidential election, won by Lai Ching-te of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party. Beijing views Lai as a “separatist” and had warned of consequences, including the possibility of “war and decline” for Taiwan.
Despite earlier warnings from China, the immediate aftermath of Taiwan’s presidential election did not witness a significant increase in military activity. However, recent balloon sightings contribute to the overall tension. Last Thursday, Taiwan detected 24 Chinese warplanes around its airspace, with 11 crossing the sensitive median line separating the island from China. China’s actions follow diplomatic shifts, with Pacific nation Nauru switching recognition from Taiwan to China, reducing Taiwan’s official allies to 12.
The detection of a significant number of Chinese balloons raises concerns about potential surveillance activities and the overall security situation in the region. In September, Taiwan recorded its largest incursion, with 103 Chinese aircraft detected around the island within a 24-hour period. The repeated military maneuvers highlight the ongoing geopolitical tensions between Taiwan and China.
