China launches ‘combat’ patrol near Taiwan following $2b U.S. arms deal approval
China has responded sharply to the U.S. approval of an $8.68 billion (RM8.68 billion) arms deal with Taiwan, deploying fighter jets, drones, and warships around the island today as part of a “joint combat readiness patrol.”
China has responded sharply to the U.S. approval of an $8.68 billion (RM8.68 billion) arms deal with Taiwan, deploying fighter jets, drones, and warships around the island today as part of a “joint combat readiness patrol.” Taiwan’s defense ministry reported the maneuver involved 19 Chinese aircraft over a four-hour period, marking the third such patrol this month.
“Taiwan’s military closely monitored the situation with joint intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance systems, deploying aircraft, naval vessels, and shore-based missile systems as an appropriate response,” the ministry stated.
The latest arms package, which includes advanced surface-to-air missile systems and radar, awaits U.S. Congressional approval. Beijing immediately condemned the deal, warning it “seriously violates China’s sovereignty and security interests, seriously damages China-US relations, and endangers peace and stability” across the Taiwan Strait.
“China strongly condemns and firmly opposes it, and has lodged solemn representations with the US,” a spokesperson for China’s foreign ministry declared, pledging that Beijing would “take all necessary measures to firmly defend national sovereignty, security and territorial integrity.”
Meanwhile, Taipei’s defense ministry expressed “sincere gratitude” for the U.S. support, stating the package will “help the military continue to improve its defense resilience and jointly maintain peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.”
The U.S. is Taiwan’s primary security partner, though it does not officially recognize the island. Tensions between Washington and Beijing over Taiwan have escalated, with China routinely dispatching aircraft and ships around the island and holding extensive war games nearby, including a record deployment of 153 aircraft in a single day earlier this month.
As Beijing reaffirms its claim over Taiwan and refuses to rule out force, Taipei’s reliance on U.S. defense aid remains vital amid the region’s increasing instability.
About The Author
