Taiwan Receives First F-16V Fighters As Air Force Strengthens Against Growing China Threat

Taiwan has taken delivery of the first two of 66 new F-16V Block 70 fighter jets ordered from the United States, marking a significant milestone in the island’s military modernisation effort as it faces increasing pressure from China, Reuters reporterd.

The aircraft arrived at Chihhang Air Base in Taitung on Taiwan’s mountainous eastern coast after months of delays that had frustrated Taipei and raised concerns about the pace of American arms deliveries.

The fighters are part of a 2019 deal valued at approximately ₹68,800 crore, approved by Washington to strengthen Taiwan’s air combat capabilities. Once all 66 aircraft are delivered, Taiwan’s F-16 fleet will exceed 200 aircraft, making it one of the largest and most capable F-16 fleets in the Asia-Pacific region.

Taiwan’s military continues to scramble aircraft almost daily in response to Chinese air operations around the island. Beijing regards Taiwan as part of its territory and has steadily increased military activity in the Taiwan Strait and surrounding areas in recent years.

The arrival of the new fighters comes at a politically sensitive moment. Concerns have grown in Taipei regarding the Trump administration’s commitment to supplying arms to Taiwan, although Washington has repeatedly stated that its policy towards the island remains unchanged.

Defence Minister Wellington Koo confirmed that additional F-16Vs are expected to arrive before the end of the year, indicating that the latest delivery is only the beginning of a broader rollout.

Delivery of the aircraft had been delayed by a combination of production challenges and software integration issues. Previous reports indicated that flight-control software development had slowed progress, while wider supply-chain pressures also affected the schedule.

The first two aircraft arrived roughly a week after a meeting between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The timing has drawn attention given ongoing tensions between Washington and Beijing over Taiwan.

Trump stated earlier this year that a proposed military assistance package for Taiwan worth around ₹1.20 lakh crore had been placed on hold, although an earlier package valued at roughly ₹94,600 crore received approval in December 2025.

The F-16V is the most advanced variant of the Fighting Falcon currently in production. Equipped with modern avionics, enhanced mission computers, advanced electronic warfare systems and the AN/APG-83 Active Electronically Scanned Array radar, the aircraft offers substantially improved situational awareness and combat performance.

These enhancements are particularly important for Taiwan as it seeks to counter increasingly sophisticated Chinese aircraft, including the stealth-capable J-20 fighter.

Taiwan has already completed a major modernisation effort that upgraded its existing F-16 fleet to the F-16V standard in 2023, significantly improving interoperability and combat effectiveness across its air force.

Under the Taiwan Relations Act, the United States is obligated to provide Taiwan with the means to defend itself, despite the absence of formal diplomatic relations between the two sides.

Beijing has consistently opposed US arms sales to Taiwan and has repeatedly urged Washington to halt such transfers, arguing that they undermine Chinese sovereignty claims.

A US State Department spokesperson reaffirmed Washington’s support for Taiwan, stating that the United States would continue working with friends and allies across the Indo-Pacific to advance shared security and prosperity.

Few countries are willing to supply advanced weapons to Taiwan because of concerns over damaging relations with China. Even the United States has refrained from offering its most advanced stealth fighters, including the F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning-II.

As a result, while the arrival of the F-16Vs represents a major boost to Taiwan’s air power, the island still lacks a direct stealth-fighter counterpart to match China’s newest generation combat aircraft. 

Nonetheless, the new fighters are expected to play a central role in maintaining Taiwan’s deterrence posture and enhancing its ability to respond to growing military pressure in the region.

Agencies

Comments

Continue Reading

Chinese President Xi Jinping Urges US To Oppose 'Taiwan Independence'

Chinese President Xi Jinping has strongly urged the United States administration to actively oppose "Taiwan independence" and handle the sensitive Taiwan question with extreme caution.

Concurrently, he called for significantly greater China-US bilateral cooperation in the field of artificial intelligence amid widespread global calls for a technology slowdown during high-level talks with US President Donald Trump at the White House.

Chinese President Xi Jinping calls for bilateral AI cooperation during strategic talks with Donald Trump.

According to an official statement issued by China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, President Xi held extensive talks with President Trump on the morning of September 24 as part of his high-profile three-day official visit to the United States.

This diplomatic summit marked the second face-to-face encounter between the two prominent world leaders in less than six months.

During their formal discussions, President Xi stated that China and the United States should consistently work towards establishing a "constructive China-US relationship of strategic stability", directly building upon the mutual understanding reached by the two leaders during their previous meeting in May.

According to the Chinese Foreign Ministry, President Xi emphasised that both nations must translate that foundational vision into concrete action.

He urged both sides to work towards a stable relationship where bilateral cooperation remains the principal mainstay, geopolitical competition is strictly kept within proper limits, diplomatic differences are effectively managed, and overall peace can be reliably expected.

The Chinese head of state highlighted the latest successful round of detailed consultations conducted between the economic and trade teams of both countries, officially revealing that they had successfully reached a fresh joint arrangement.

President Xi noted that diplomatic and commercial cooperation is fundamentally a two-way street. He asserted that to keep broad economic and trade ties stable over the long term, the list of joint cooperation needs to be lengthened, while the list of contentious issues must be shortened.

He further added that so long as both sovereign sides act in the true spirit of equality, mutual respect, and mutual benefit, a practical pathway to resolving deep-seated differences can always be smoothly found.

Addressing the rapidly evolving domain of artificial intelligence, President Xi observed that both China and the United States possess exceptionally strong AI technological capabilities. He explicitly argued that intense bilateral competition in this sector should be accompanied by far greater international cooperation.

President Xi remarked that the right thing to do is to draw directly on each other's inherent strengths rather than constantly guard against each other.

He formally proposed the continuation of structured bilateral dialogue between the two global powers on artificial intelligence. This includes routine exchanges on its potential systemic risks and societal benefits, alongside joint regulatory efforts aimed at preventing its misuse and widespread abuse.

President Xi firmly stated that AI technology must strictly be kept under human control at all times. He stressed that a genuine people-centred approach should be upheld globally, ensuring AI is developed for positive outcomes so that it ultimately serves the constructive progress of all humanity.

The Chinese President also brought up the sensitive Taiwan issue during the dialogue, firmly reiterating Beijing's long-standing position on national reunification and territorial integrity.

The statement released by the Chinese Foreign Ministry noted that President Xi stressed China's unwavering position on safeguarding its national reunification and territorial integrity is entirely clear-cut.

President Xi stated it is hoped the US side will adhere strictly to the correct position of opposing "Taiwan independence" and handle the delicate Taiwan question with extreme caution. Doing so, he noted, will lay a solid foundation for future China-US strategic cooperation and the smooth overall development of bilateral relations.

The Taiwan question remains one of the most volatile and sensitive subjects in China-US diplomatic relations, given that Beijing regards Taiwan as an inalienable part of its territory and firmly opposes any moves towards formal independence.

For his part, President Donald Trump warmly described President Xi's visit to Washington DC as a "great visit". He agreed that both economic powerhouses should vigorously continue their economic and trade dialogue following the successful consultations between their respective delegations.

According to the statement, President Trump remarked that he and President Xi are good friends who consistently maintain deep and close personal communication. He expressed confidence that under their shared leadership, the crucial US-China relationship will undoubtedly be an overwhelming success.

President Trump also reiterated that the two sides should maintain open dialogue and continuously work towards achieving an improved, comprehensive trade agreement.

On the subject of artificial intelligence, President Trump fully agreed that both nations must sustain structured dialogue and expand cross-border cooperation, acknowledging that the advanced technology concerns the core future of humanity.

Beyond technological and economic issues, the two leaders exchanged detailed views on major international and regional crisis points, including the ongoing situation in the Middle East, the Ukraine conflict, and strategic developments on the Korean Peninsula.

President Xi and President Trump further reached a mutual agreement to support each other in hosting key upcoming global forums, specifically the 2026 APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting and the G20 Summit.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry confirmed that several high-ranking Chinese dignitaries attended the summit. These included Director of the General Office of the CCP Central Committee Cai Qi, Chinese Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi, and Vice Premier of the State Council He Lifeng, among other senior officials.

President Xi's high-stakes three-day visit to the United States comes at a crucial juncture when both Beijing and Washington are actively seeking to manage intense strategic competition and deep structural differences while sustaining productive bilateral engagement across trade, technology, and key international security issues.

ANI

Comments

Continue Reading

China Expands Military Build-Up With New Yagong Island Construction In South China Sea

Satellite imagery confirms that China has begun new construction on Yagong Island in the Paracel Islands, just 14 km from Antelope Reef, where Beijing is developing its largest artificial island, Reuters reported.

Analysts believe the new structures could serve as radar or surveillance facilities, strengthening China’s military footprint in the northern South China Sea, though Beijing insists they are for civilian use.

Satellite images taken in August 2026 show fresh installations on Yagong Island, part of the Crescent Group in the Paracels. The construction began earlier this year, with three-pronged structures now visible.

Security experts suggest these resemble radar or early-warning facilities similar to those China has deployed elsewhere in the South China Sea. Their proximity to Antelope Reef indicates they may be designed to support the larger base under development there.

Antelope Reef itself has undergone extensive land reclamation, creating an artificial island nearly 6 km long. Analysts note that its straight coastline, stretching over 3 km, could eventually accommodate a runway.

This would make Antelope Reef one of China’s most strategically significant outposts in the northern South China Sea, extending its reach closer to Vietnam and enhancing its ability to project power across contested waters.

Yagong Island, though smaller, is strategically positioned to complement Antelope Reef. Together, they form part of a broader Chinese effort to consolidate control over the Paracels, which Beijing seized from South Vietnam in 1974.

Vietnam continues to claim sovereignty over the entire archipelago, while other nations including the Philippines, Malaysia, Taiwan, and Brunei also maintain overlapping claims in the wider South China Sea.

China’s defence ministry has not commented on the new construction, and state media continue to frame the developments as serving civilian purposes such as weather forecasting, fisheries protection, and scientific research.

However, the dual-use nature of the facilities raises concerns among regional analysts, who argue that they could significantly enhance China’s surveillance and military presence in the area.

The timing of these developments is notable, as tensions in the South China Sea remain high. The region is increasingly militarised, with the United States and its allies conducting freedom of navigation operations to challenge China’s expansive claims.

Analysts warn that the new installations could play a critical role in any future conflict over Taiwan, given their location in the northern South China Sea.

Vietnam has responded by expanding its own network of bases in the Spratly Islands further south, underscoring the escalating contest for control of strategic maritime territory.

The construction on Yagong Island adds another layer to this competition, highlighting Beijing’s determination to strengthen its hold on the Paracels and extend its influence across the Indo-Pacific.

Agencies

Comments

Continue Reading

Indian Firms Showcase Innovation And Partnerships At Computex 2026 In Taiwan

Indian companies Sahasra Electronics and Zoho Corporation showcased their products at COMPUTEX 2026 in Taipei, seeking global partnerships and market expansion. The event, one of the world’s largest technology exhibitions, highlighted growing India-Taiwan cooperation in semiconductors, AI, and electronics supply chains.

Indian electronics manufacturer Sahasra Electronics, part of the Sahasra Group, presented its microSD cards at the exhibition. The company reported strong interest from customers across China, the United States, Europe and the United Kingdom.

Ankur Dwivedi, strategic account manager at Sahasra, emphasised that the firm was using the event not only to strengthen sales but also to explore partnerships, technology collaborations and potential joint ventures. He noted that such ventures could help implement advanced technologies in India, thereby boosting domestic innovation and manufacturing capabilities.

Zoho Corporation, a leading provider of cloud-based business software and software-as-a-service applications, also participated in the exhibition. Eng Kit Goh, Zoho’s market lead for Hong Kong, South Korea and Taiwan, explained that Taiwan was emerging as a significant market for the company.

He highlighted that businesses in Taipei and across Taiwan were increasingly adopting digital solutions, creating strong opportunities for Zoho’s products. Goh added that India’s established reputation in software development and technology services had built trust among Taiwanese customers, reinforcing Zoho’s credibility in the region.

Organisers of COMPUTEX 2026 expressed optimism about deeper Indian participation in future editions. James C F Huang, Chairman of the Taiwan External Trade Development Council, extended a warm invitation to India’s vibrant technology industry, encouraging stronger engagement as the exhibition continues to grow into one of the world’s most influential platforms for artificial intelligence and technology innovation. He stressed that India’s expanding role in global technology made its presence at COMPUTEX vital for shaping future collaborations.

The exhibition itself was a record-breaking event, featuring 6,000 booths from 1,500 exhibitors representing 33 countries. It attracted 1,11,312 buyers and visitors from 152 countries and regions, including Japan, the United States, South Korea, China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Vietnam, India, Thailand and Malaysia.

Major global technology firms such as Nvidia, Intel, Marvell and Qualcomm unveiled new products and initiatives during the event, many of which are already integrated into India’s growing technology ecosystem.

India-Taiwan technology ties have strengthened in recent years, particularly in semiconductor manufacturing, AI infrastructure and electronics supply chains. Taiwan contributes technical expertise and advanced manufacturing capabilities, while India offers a vast consumer market, raw materials and a skilled workforce. This synergy has created opportunities for strategic partnerships that benefit both sides, positioning India as a key player in global technology networks.

The COMPUTEX 2026 exhibition concluded on Friday, reaffirming its status as a leading global platform for artificial intelligence, computing technologies and start-ups. The participation of Indian companies, though limited in number, underscored the country’s ambition to expand its international footprint and deepen cooperation with Taiwan in critical technology sectors.

PTI

Comments

Continue Reading

Taiwan Air Force Grounds Trainers After Fatal Crash

The crash of a Taiwanese Air Force T-34 trainer aircraft during a simulated engine failure exercise has resulted in the deaths of two experienced pilots, both lieutenant colonels aged 41 and 45.

The incident occurred at 8:08 am local time on Tuesday, 2 June 2026, at the northern end of the runway at Gangshan Air Base in Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s southern port city.

The aircraft had taken off around 20 minutes earlier, and according to the air force’s inspector general, Major General Chiang Yi-cheng, there were no abnormal radio communications or reported technical issues before the crash. This has raised questions about the sudden nature of the accident, which unfolded without prior warning.

The air force confirmed that the training flights on T-34 aircraft have been suspended pending investigation. A task force has been established to determine the cause of the crash, which occurred during a routine training exercise designed to simulate engine failure.

The T-34, a single-engine propeller aircraft manufactured by Beechcraft, has been in service with Taiwan’s air force since 1984 and is used as a primary trainer for pilot instruction. Despite its long service history, the crash has renewed scrutiny of the ageing fleet and its suitability for modern training requirements.

President Lai Ching-te expressed his condolences, describing himself as “deeply saddened” by the loss of life. He praised the pilots as “heroic” and thanked them for their sacrifice and dedication to Taiwan’s defence.

His remarks underscored the gravity of the incident, which has shaken the air force and highlighted the risks inherent in military aviation training. The president’s statement also sought to reassure the public of the government’s commitment to supporting the armed forces during this difficult time.

This tragedy follows another serious incident earlier in the year, when an F-16 fighter jet crashed into the sea off eastern Taiwan during a routine training mission in January. The pilot of that aircraft is believed to have ejected but has not been found, adding to concerns about operational safety and the challenges faced by Taiwan’s air force in maintaining readiness.

Together, these accidents illustrate the pressures on Taiwan’s military aviation sector, which must balance intensive training demands with the limitations of ageing platforms.

The suspension of T-34 training flights is expected to impact pilot training schedules, though the air force has not yet indicated how long the grounding will last.

The investigation will focus on mechanical reliability, training protocols, and whether systemic issues contributed to the crash. With Taiwan’s defence forces under constant pressure due to regional tensions, the loss of two senior officers is a significant blow, both operationally and symbolically.

Agencies

Comments

Continue Reading

Trump’s China Summit Falls Flat, Exposes Divergent Narratives And Limited Progress

The summit between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People on 14 May 2026 was marked by sharply divergent narratives from Washington and Beijing. 

Both sides brought senior officials responsible for foreign affairs, defence and economic policy, with China represented by thirteen officials and the US by eleven. Xi repeated familiar language about cooperation benefiting both countries and conflict harming both, while Trump declared that ties were “going to be better than ever before.”

Yet behind the ceremonial statements, the meeting revealed the absence of major agreements, persistent strategic distrust and Beijing’s reluctance to elevate Trump’s visit politically or symbolically.

Chinese state media placed Taiwan at the centre of the summit. Xinhua reported that Xi described Taiwan as “the most important issue” in US–China relations, warning that mishandling it could lead to confrontation or conflict.

He reiterated Beijing’s position that “Taiwan independence” is incompatible with peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. The White House account, however, did not foreground Taiwan, instead highlighting discussions on Iran, the Strait of Hormuz, global energy security and economic cooperation.

The contrasting readouts reflected parallel messaging strategies: Beijing emphasising sovereignty and red lines, Washington attempting to frame the summit around broader geopolitical cooperation and stability in West Asia.

Taiwan’s prominence in Beijing’s narrative coincided with developments in Washington. Just a day before the summit, a bipartisan group in the US House of Representatives introduced a resolution reaffirming longstanding American commitments to Taiwan. The measure underscored the Taiwan Relations Act, the Three Communiques and the Six Assurances as the foundation of US policy, rejecting any notion that they could be treated as bargaining tools.

The Taiwan Relations Act of 1979 has shaped unofficial US–Taiwan ties while supporting Taiwan’s democratic and economic development. The Six Assurances of 1982 reiterated that Washington would not set a date for ending arms sales, would not consult Beijing in advance, would not mediate between Taiwan and the Chinese Communist Party, would not revise the Act, would not take a position on sovereignty and would not pressure Taiwan into negotiations.

The Three Joint Communiques of 1972, 1979 and 1982 continue to define the framework of the US “One China” policy. Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs later stated that China remains “the sole risk to regional peace and stability” and pledged continued cooperation with the US and other partners. Despite the rhetoric, the summit produced no breakthrough on Taiwan, with Xi reiterating familiar positions and Washington offering no concessions.

On trade, Chinese state media attempted to portray the summit as economically constructive, but tangible results were limited. Xi told Trump that recent economic discussions had produced “generally balanced and positive results,” referencing separate talks between US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng in South Korea earlier in the week. China’s Ministry of Commerce said Beijing was willing to expand cooperation while narrowing differences.

Yet outcomes fell short of expectations. One concrete development involved licensing US slaughterhouses for beef exports to China, but this quickly appeared uncertain amid reports of reversals and pressure from Chinese agricultural interests. Anticipated agreements involving Chinese purchases of Boeing aircraft also failed to materialise.

Reports had suggested China could commit to buying 200 Boeing jets, but no confirmation emerged, disappointing investors. There was likewise no visible progress on geopolitical disputes involving Iran, Taiwan or Japan. Trump claimed Xi had “strongly” promised not to supply Iran with weapons, but no formal agreement was reached.

The White House highlighted discussions on the Strait of Hormuz and global energy security, but Chinese readouts barely mentioned them. Ultimately, the summit produced neither a significant trade breakthrough nor a strategic reset.

Beijing’s treatment of Trump’s visit was notably subdued. Unlike previous visits by American presidents, Chinese state media coverage remained restrained and at times indifferent. On the day Trump arrived, China Daily’s front page featured Xi with Tajikistan’s president, relegating Trump’s arrival to secondary coverage.

People’s Daily placed commentary on Trump’s visit on Page 3. CCTV’s flagship news program devoted only 12 seconds to announcing Trump’s arrival, followed by a six‑minute segment on Yangtze River Delta development. Even on the day of the summit, coverage of the Trump‑Xi meeting lasted just two and a half minutes and appeared 13th in the program line-up.

This contrasted sharply with earlier visits by Clinton, Bush, Obama and Trump’s own 2017 trip, all of which received extensive promotion. Beijing’s caution reflected uncertainty over Trump’s unpredictability, with officials wary of sudden controversies turning favourable coverage into liabilities. 

Social media activity was heavily restricted, with public discussion limited to sardonic commentary about US difficulties in Iran and occasional praise for Trump’s deferential posture toward Xi. One of the few figures to generate excitement was Jensen Huang, the Taiwanese American technology executive accompanying Trump’s delegation.

Xi largely repeated long‑standing positions rather than offering new initiatives. He reiterated Beijing’s red lines on Taiwan, democracy, human rights and China’s political system, returning to themes of stability over confrontation, rejection of great‑power conflict and warnings against the “Thucydides Trap.”

No major joint initiatives or strategic frameworks emerged. Much of the political theatre appeared centred on Trump seeking validation from Xi. In media appearances, Trump praised Xi in unusually personal terms, even remarking to Fox News that Hollywood could not find someone like him to play China’s leader.

The contrast with earlier US presidential visits was striking. Previous leaders arrived representing a globally dominant United States managing relations with China. This time, Beijing projected confidence while Washington appeared focused on optics and personal diplomacy.

By the end of the visit, the summit had produced divergent narratives, modest trade gestures and extensive symbolism, but little evidence of strategic progress.

Agencies

Comments

Continue Reading

Xi Warns Trump of Clashes Over Taiwan As Beijing Summit Highlights Fragile China‑US Ties

Chinese President Xi Jinping issued a stark warning to US President Donald Trump in Beijing today, cautioning that mishandling the Taiwan issue could push the two nations into “clashes and even conflicts,” placing the entire bilateral relationship in jeopardy.

The remarks underscored Taiwan as the most sensitive flashpoint in China‑US ties, even as both leaders sought to project cooperation during Trump’s two‑day state visit.

Xi Jinping told Trump that safeguarding peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait represented the “biggest common denominator” between the two countries.

He stressed that Taiwan remained the most important issue in China‑US relations, warning that if managed prudently, ties could remain stable, but if mishandled, they risked spiralling into confrontation.

He described “Taiwan independence” and peace across the Strait as “irreconcilable as fire and water,” signalling Beijing’s uncompromising stance.

The meeting took place during Trump’s two‑day visit to China, his first in nine years, amid continuing tensions over trade, technology, regional security, and the US conflict with Iran. Xi emphasised that China and the United States “should be partners, not rivals,” calling for cooperation instead of confrontation.

He noted that the world was watching their meeting closely, describing the current global situation as turbulent and at a crossroads, and raised the question of whether both nations could avoid the “Thucydides trap” — the risk of conflict when a rising power challenges an established one.

Xi urged both sides to build a new model of major power relations, stressing that success for one country should be seen as an opportunity for the other. He reiterated that both nations stood to gain through cooperation and lose through confrontation, highlighting the broader global stakes of their relationship.

He welcomed Trump back to China, congratulated the United States ahead of its 250th anniversary of independence, and expressed hope that the two sides could “open up a new chapter” in bilateral relations.

Analysts described Xi’s warning as unusually blunt, noting that it exposed profound risks in the relationship. While the immediate fallout may be limited, the stakes remain high. US arms sales to Taiwan have long angered Beijing, which has vowed to bring the island under its control by force if necessary.

Washington, while recognising Beijing diplomatically, is legally bound under the Taiwan Relations Act to provide weapons to Taiwan for its defence. Trump’s administration recently announced an $11 billion arms package for Taiwan, including rocket systems, drones, and anti‑tank missiles, though delivery has yet to proceed.

The summit also featured discussions on trade, artificial intelligence safeguards, and the Iran conflict. Trump travelled with a delegation of senior officials and prominent business leaders, including Tesla CEO Elon Musk, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, and Apple CEO Tim Cook, reflecting the economic dimension of the talks. Both sides discussed expanding market access for American businesses and increasing Chinese investment, while also exploring cooperation in aerospace, agriculture, and energy.

Despite the cordial tone at public events, including a welcome ceremony at the Great Hall of the People, a visit to the Temple of Heaven, and a state banquet, Taiwan remained the most contentious issue.

The White House readout of the meeting did not mention Taiwan, though Chinese state media highlighted Xi’s remarks. US officials insisted that Washington’s policy on Taiwan remained unchanged, maintaining strategic ambiguity while continuing military support for the island.

Xi’s comments underscored the fragility of China‑US relations, with Taiwan at the centre of potential confrontation. His call for cooperation and avoidance of rivalry reflects Beijing’s desire to stabilise ties, but the uncompromising language on Taiwan signals that the issue will remain the defining challenge in the relationship. The summit thus highlighted both the opportunities for partnership and the risks of conflict between the world’s two largest economies.

ANI

Comments

Continue Reading

Trump To Raise Taiwan Arms Sales With Xi Amid Beijing Summit Tensions

Donald Trump has confirmed that he will raise the issue of U.S. arms sales to Taiwan during his summit with Xi Jinping in Beijing this week, despite Beijing’s strong opposition.

The talks will also cover wider U.S.–China tensions, including trade, Iran, and human rights, but Washington has signalled no change in its Taiwan policy.

U.S. President Donald Trump told reporters at the White House that he intends to discuss arms sales to Taiwan with Chinese President Xi Jinping during his upcoming visit to Beijing. He acknowledged that Xi would prefer Washington to halt such transfers but insisted the matter would be part of the agenda. Trump emphasised that this was one of several issues he would raise in the bilateral discussions.

China continues to claim Taiwan as part of its territory, a position rejected by the democratically governed island. Washington adheres to the “one China policy,” recognising Beijing’s stance but refraining from taking a position on Taiwan’s sovereignty.

At the same time, the United States remains Taiwan’s most important international backer and is legally bound to assist in its defence. Arms sales have long been a flashpoint in U.S.–China relations, with Beijing condemning them as violations of its core interests.

In December, Trump authorised the largest-ever U.S. weapons package for Taiwan, valued at more than $11 billion, which included advanced missile systems and air defence equipment.

More recently, his aides have pressed Taipei to allocate even greater resources to its defence. Taiwanese lawmakers have since approved a special defence budget of $25 billion, though this fell short of the government’s request for $40 billion to counter China’s growing military pressure.

Trump reiterated his belief that tensions over Taiwan would not escalate during his presidency. He stated, “I don’t think it’ll happen. I think we’ll be fine. I have a very good relationship with President Xi. He knows I don’t want that to happen.” His comments suggested confidence that his personal rapport with Xi could help manage the dispute, even as arms sales remain a contentious issue.

Chinese officials have responded firmly, with Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun stressing that Beijing’s opposition to U.S. arms sales to Taiwan is “consistent and clear.” He warned that attempts to use Taiwan to contain China would fail.

Meanwhile, Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry reaffirmed its reliance on U.S. support, pledging to strengthen deterrence and maintain peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

The summit between Trump and Xi, scheduled for 14–15 May in Beijing, comes against a backdrop of wider geopolitical tensions, including U.S. military operations in Iran and ongoing disputes over tariffs, technology restrictions, and rare earth exports.

Analysts note that any rhetorical softening by Trump on Taiwan could destabilise the region, while a reaffirmation of U.S. commitments would reassure Taipei but further strain ties with Beijing.

The meeting will also reportedly address other sensitive issues, including the imprisonment of Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai, trade normalisation efforts, and energy market stability amid Middle East turmoil. Despite the broad agenda, Taiwan’s defence remains one of the most critical and potentially explosive topics.

Reuters

Comments

Continue Reading

Balikatan 2026: 17,000-Troop Drill Rehearses Territorial Defence Against Chinee Invasion Amid Taiwan Tensions

Exercise Balikatan 2026 in the Philippines has become the largest iteration of the annual war games so far, with more than 17,000 troops taking part from 20 April to 8 May.

The exercise has drawn personnel from seven countries: the Philippines, the United States, Australia, Canada, France, Japan and New Zealand. Four of those partners — Canada, France, Japan and New Zealand — are contributing combat troops for the first time, underscoring how the exercise has widened in scope and political significance.

One of the most striking episodes took place on 4 May during a counter-landing live-fire drill near the La Paz sand dunes in north-west Luzon. In that scenario, US Army HIMARS launchers fired rockets towards approaching ship targets, while fighters, missile patrol boats and attack helicopters worked to reduce the number of enemy landing craft before they reached shore.

Any amphibious assault vehicles that managed to land were then met with artillery fire, mortars, small-arms fire and Stinger surface-to-air missiles.

By the end of the engagement, one unmanned surface vessel was left burning on the beach, while another disabled boat drifted away at sea. The defenders in that scenario were Canada, Japan, the Philippines and the United States, and the purpose of the drill was plainly to demonstrate how a joint force could block a hostile amphibious landing.

The Philippine military spokesperson for Balikatan 2026, Colonel Dennis Hernandez, described the event as proof of the country’s growing ability to defend its shores through a multi-layered joint and combined approach.

He said the exercise integrated land, sea and air assets to destroy threats decisively before they could reach the coastline. That formulation reflects the broader shift in Balikatan away from its earlier emphasis on counterinsurgency and counterterrorism towards large-scale combat operations and territorial defence.

Although the exercise organisers did not explicitly name an adversary, the strategic context made the likely focus clear. The drills were widely understood as rehearsal for a Chinese invasion scenario involving either the Philippines or Taiwan.

The targets used in the exercise reinforced that reading, as military commentators described them as ZBDs, a reference to Chinese amphibious assault vehicles. One of the unmanned targets at sea was said to visually resemble a PLA ZBD-05.

US Army AH-64E Apache attack helicopters were reported to have destroyed five ZBDs during the two-hour live-fire event near Laoag. The implication was that partner forces were practising a layered defence against an amphibious assault, combining air, sea and ground fires to stop hostile forces at or before the shoreline.

General Ronald Clark, Commander of US Army Pacific, did not name China directly, but he made clear that the exercise was about simulating the kinds of tasks allied forces might have to perform in combat. He stressed that Balikatan reflects the willingness of partners to train for the tasks they believe they may need to execute in a real crisis or conflict.

For the United States, dominance over the Luzon Strait helps prevent PLA Navy warships from breaking out of the South China Sea into the open Pacific. For China, by contrast, controlling the strait and similar waterways would open options for greater freedom of action, including the ability to attack or invade Taiwan’s east coast rather than facing only the west coast, which sits directly opposite mainland China across the Taiwan Strait. In that sense, any serious Chinese military move against Taiwan would almost certainly involve an attempt to secure access through the Luzon Strait.

Clark ended on a cautiously optimistic note, saying that the US military is in a much better and more focused position in the region than it was ten years ago when he last served at headquarters. That assessment reflects both the expansion of allied coordination and the sharper focus on Taiwan contingency planning, maritime denial and territorial defence across the First and Second Island Chains.

ANI

Comments

Continue Reading

India’s Technical Backing Recognised In Taiwan’s Hai Kun-Class Submarine Program

Taiwan has formally acknowledged India’s role in supporting its ambitious Hai Kun-class Indigenous Defence Submarine program. This marks a significant moment in regional defence cooperation, as New Delhi’s technical and industrial contributions have been publicly recognised by Taipei.

The Hai Kun-class represents Taiwan’s first attempt at building a domestically designed and manufactured submarine, a project that has drawn considerable international attention due to its strategic implications in the Indo-Pacific.

Citing a report from Global Taiwan published in Feb 2206, India has not yet provided direct assistance to Taiwan's submarine production program, but opportunities exist for informal collaboration due to shared challenges in hull fabrication, subsystems, and sustainment. The article proposes India could gain from Taiwan's lithium-ion battery expertise for AIP systems, while Taiwan benefits from India's experience refurbishing ageing diesel-electric submarines like Kilo- and Type-209 classes. Such cooperation could leverage existing commercial agreements (e.g., Bilateral Investment Agreement 2018) without formal defence pacts, given India's non-recognition of Taiwan.

However, as subtlety is paramount when dealing with the sensitivities surrounding China's Taiwan obsession, India’s involvement has been multifaceted, extending beyond the supply of specialised components to include structural elements and subsystem manufacturing. These contributions have been critical in enabling Taiwan to overcome industrial bottlenecks and ensure the integrity of its submarine construction process.

By providing advanced components tailored to the demanding requirements of undersea platforms, India has demonstrated both its growing industrial capacity and its willingness to support partners facing complex security challenges.

In addition to material support, India has offered advisory expertise through retired naval personnel with extensive experience in operating Kalvari-class and Kilo-class submarines. Their guidance has been instrumental in helping Taiwan’s engineers and naval planners adapt proven operational practices to the new indigenous design.

This transfer of knowledge has strengthened Taiwan’s ability to integrate advanced systems and refine its submarine doctrine, ensuring that the Hai Kun-class will be both technically sound and operationally effective.

The acknowledgement by Taiwan underscores the importance of India’s emerging role as a defence technology partner in Asia. It highlights New Delhi’s capacity not only to produce and export critical components but also to provide strategic advisory support rooted in decades of operational experience. 

This collaboration reflects a broader trend of India positioning itself as a reliable contributor to regional security and self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

The Hai Kun-class program is a cornerstone of Taiwan’s efforts to modernise its navy and enhance deterrence in the face of growing maritime challenges. India’s support has added credibility to the project, reinforcing the notion that indigenous defence initiatives can succeed with carefully cultivated partnerships.

For New Delhi, the cooperation also signals its expanding influence in the Indo-Pacific, where defence collaboration is increasingly seen as a counterbalance to regional power asymmetries.

By formally recognising India’s contributions, Taiwan has not only strengthened bilateral ties but also sent a message about the value of industrial and technical cooperation among like-minded partners. This development illustrates how shared expertise and mutual support can accelerate indigenous defence programmes, while simultaneously advancing strategic interests in a contested maritime environment.

Agencies

Comments

Continue Reading

China's Warplanes Vanish Near Taiwan: What's Behind the Sharp Drop?

Taiwan has reported no detections of Chinese military aircraft in its air defence identification zone (ADIZ) for nine of the past ten days, marking a sharp deviation from Beijing's routine incursions.

This follows a single instance of two aircraft on 28 February, contrasting starkly with 86 detections during the same period last year. Such a prolonged lull—the longest since tracking began in 2024—has prompted intense scrutiny from defence analysts.

China maintains its claim over Taiwan as an inseparable province, repeatedly threatening force to achieve reunification. In recent years, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) has intensified pressure through near-daily deployments of fighter jets, bombers, and warships encircling the island. These operations test Taiwan's defences, probe response times, and signal resolve to both Taipei and Washington.

The current drop aligns with broader trends: PLA air sorties fell by 42 per cent in January and February compared to the previous year. Warship sightings, however, remain steady at an average of six per day over the past ten days, mirroring last year's figures. This selective reduction in air activity, while naval presence persists, suggests deliberate calibration rather than a full operational pause.

Experts point to several potential explanations. China's ongoing "two sessions"—the annual National People's Congress and Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference—may be diverting resources. These gatherings, currently underway in Beijing, historically correlate with reduced ADIZ incursions, as noted by analysts like Brian Hart of the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS).

Military purges within the PLA could also play a role. Recent high-profile dismissals, including of aerospace and rocket force commanders amid corruption probes, have disrupted command structures and training regimens. This internal upheaval may limit the PLA's capacity for sustained air operations near Taiwan.

Geopolitical timing adds further layers. US President Donald Trump's impending visit to Beijing later this month, to meet Xi Jinping, might prompt a temporary de-escalation to foster diplomatic goodwill. Simultaneous distractions, such as the escalating Middle East conflict, could be stretching PLA assets, though air sorties specifically targeting Taiwan appear most affected.

Drew Thompson, senior fellow at Singapore's S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, expressed unease on Substack: "I didn't expect to be worried about the cessation of PLA operations around Taiwan, but the lack of a rational explanation is disconcerting." Ben Lewis of PLATracker echoed this, describing it as a "significant disruption" to routine patterns, though he sees no signs of imminent kinetic action.

Taiwanese analyst Su Tzu-yun from the Institute for National Defence and Security Research posits a strategic ploy: Beijing may aim to undermine public support for President Lai Ching-te's ambitious $40 billion defence spending proposal over eight years. Blocked by opposition lawmakers, the plan seeks to bolster indigenous capabilities amid rising threats.

A Taiwanese security official warned AFP of possible deception, suggesting China seeks to lull the US into reducing security support by feigning eased tensions. "We must not let our guard down," the official urged, highlighting the risk of complacency.

Historical patterns offer reassurance for some. Hart noted on X that ADIZ incursions routinely drop near zero during the two sessions annually. If the trend extends far beyond these meetings—expected to conclude soon—it would signal something anomalous, potentially tied to deeper PLA constraints or shifts in Taiwan Strait strategy.

From an Indo-Pacific perspective, this lull intersects with India's strategic interests. A distracted PLA Air Force could indirectly ease pressures on shared maritime domains, allowing greater focus on South China Sea patrols or QUAD interoperability. Yet, sustained low activity might indicate PLA resource reallocation towards hypersonic development or western theatre priorities, including Ladakh tensions.

Naval consistency underscores Beijing's hybrid approach: warships maintain encirclement, enabling surveillance and blockade rehearsals without air escalation. Taiwan's response—heightened vigilance and allied coordination—remains critical, especially as US arms deliveries, like F-16 upgrades, proceed.

If purges or budget strains persist, China's much-vaunted 2027 PLA modernisation goals could falter, creating windows for Taiwan's asymmetric defences and allies' freedom of navigation operations. Conversely, a sudden surge post-lull would reaffirm aggressive posturing.

Analysts urge caution against over-interpretation. PLA Tracker's Lewis emphasised that while the gap is notable, it lacks indicators of major invasion preparations, such as massed amphibious rehearsals. Monitoring will intensify as the two sessions wrap up.

This aircraft drought puzzles but does not paralyse observers. It blends routine diplomacy, internal PLA woes, and tactical signalling, yet Taiwan and its partners must sustain readiness amid Beijing's enduring reunification ambitions.

AFP

Comments

Continue Reading

US Think Tank Warns: China Could Lose 100,000 Troops In Failed Taiwan Invasion Attempt

The recent study by the German Marshall Fund, titled "If China Attacks Taiwan," assesses the military and geopolitical consequences of a Chinese attempt to seize Taiwan by force. It concludes that an all-out amphibious invasion would likely fail, impose extremely high costs on Beijing, and still result in only limited territorial gains such as the offshore Kinmen and Matsu islands.

The report models a major war scenario in which China launches amphibious landings on Taiwan, synchronised with large-scale strikes against Taiwanese military targets and United States forces stationed in Japan and Guam.

Although the People’s Liberation Army is assessed as capable of reaching Taiwan’s shores, its logistics would be severely degraded by effective Taiwanese and US interdiction of ships and aircraft moving across the Taiwan Strait. Sustained attrition of Chinese transport and support assets is seen as the critical factor undermining the invasion.

Over several months of intense fighting, the study estimates that Chinese forces could suffer up to 100,000 fatalities. These “massive losses” would, in the authors’ view, create political and military pressure on Beijing to agree to a withdrawal from Taiwan’s main island. The report suggests that China would ultimately have to accept terms allowing its surviving troops to be repatriated to the mainland unharmed, effectively acknowledging the failure of the campaign while trying to save face domestically.

Taiwan, however, would also pay a very high price. The study projects approximately 50,000 military and 50,000 civilian casualties for Taiwan in a full-scale conflict. The United States is estimated to lose around 5,000 military personnel and 1,000 civilians, while Japan could incur about 1,000 military and 500 civilian deaths. These figures underscore the scale of destruction and human cost even in a scenario where the invasion is repelled and Taiwan’s core territory remains under its control.

Despite China’s eventual withdrawal from Taiwan proper, the report judges it likely that Chinese forces could retain control of the nearby Kinmen and Matsu islands. This outcome would amount to a partial territorial loss for Taiwan, illustrating that even a failed invasion could still shift the local balance of control along the maritime frontier in Beijing’s favour.

Beyond battlefield dynamics, the report evaluates the probable international responses to both a major war and a more limited crisis. Drawing on precedents such as the sanctions and diplomatic backlash following the 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown, the 2014–2015 Umbrella Movement, the 2019–2020 Anti-Extradition protests in Hong Kong, and Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, the authors map out a spectrum of possible reactions and their perceived costs for China.

In a major war scenario, only four potential measures are assessed as imposing a “high cost” on Beijing. The most likely of these is freezing the assets of Chinese leaders, which the study judges as having a relatively high probability. Three more severe steps are considered low probability: forming a NATO-style collective defence alliance in Asia, formal recognition of Taiwan’s independence by key states, and the conclusion of a treaty alliance with Taipei. The report implies that while Western powers might impose serious targeted sanctions, they would hesitate before making irreversible strategic commitments on Taiwan’s status.

By contrast, under a minor conflict scenario, the anticipated international response would be significantly more restrained. This lesser crisis is defined as involving weeks of air and naval confrontations, repeated incursions into Taiwan’s airspace and waters, and the imposition of a “quarantine” on Taiwan’s major ports without an outright amphibious assault.

In such a case, most governments are expected to limit themselves to issuing critical public statements, updating travel advisories, and perhaps taking narrowly focused diplomatic steps.

From Beijing’s perspective, these actions are characterised in the report as “low cost,” suggesting that Chinese leaders might view limited coercive operations as carrying manageable international risks compared with the extreme dangers of a full-scale invasion.

The timing of the report, arriving just a week after large Chinese military exercises around Taiwan, underscores concerns that calibrated displays of force and grey-zone tactics may remain Beijing’s preferred tools while the costs of an outright invasion appear prohibitive.

Based On ANI Report

Comments

Continue Reading

US Venezuela Op Risks Greenlighting Russia In Ukraine, China On Taiwan, Analysts Fear

Analysts have expressed grave concerns over the recent United States military operation in Venezuela, which culminated in airstrikes on 3 January 2026 and the capture of President Nicolás Maduro, warning that it establishes a perilous precedent for global powers.

This intervention, involving the deployment of warships, CIA operations, and the seizure of oil tankers since late 2025, has been framed by President Trump as a means to combat drug trafficking and secure Venezuelan oil resources under the Monroe Doctrine.

Critics argue that such unilateral action against a sovereign state undermines international law and could embolden adversaries like Russia and China to pursue aggressive strategies elsewhere.

The operation began with a US military build-up in the Caribbean in August 2025, escalating to strikes on suspected drug vessels and a blockade that prevented oil exports. By December, the USS Gerald R. Ford carrier group was involved, and covert CIA teams tracked Maduro, leading to his extraction by helicopter raid near Caracas, protected by drones and fighter jets.

Trump has vowed that the US will "run" Venezuela until a safe transition, with American firms poised to exploit its oil and gas reserves, prompting accusations of resource grabs from Venezuelan officials.

International reactions have been swift and divided, with Latin American nations, Russia, China, and Iran condemning the strikes as violations of sovereignty. Russia's Foreign Ministry labelled it "armed aggression," while China expressed shock at the "hegemonic acts," urging adherence to the UN Charter. 

Venezuelan Vice-President Delcy Rodríguez denounced Maduro's capture as "barbaric," though Trump claimed she was cooperating, highlighting the chaotic power vacuum.

In geopolitical commentary, experts highlight how this sets a template for Russia in Ukraine. President Putin's long-held view of Ukraine as within Moscow's sphere mirrors Trump's Monroe Doctrine application, potentially justifying Russian abductions or escalations against Ukrainian leaders like President Zelenskyy.

Fiona Hill, a former Trump advisor, noted past Russian proposals to trade Venezuela support for US concessions on Ukraine, suggesting Putin might now overlook US actions in exchange for leeway. Russian officials have already invoked international law violations in Venezuela to bolster their narrative, despite their own actions in Ukraine.

Similarly, for China and Taiwan, the Venezuela precedent lowers barriers to coercion. Legal scholar Milena Sterio warns that US blockades and strikes on "terrorist" boats could rationalise Chinese blockades or "police actions" around Taiwan, especially amid ongoing drills like "Justice Mission 2025".

Steve Tsang of SOAS China Institute observes that Beijing, viewing Taiwan as non-sovereign, might treat incursions as internal policing, emulating US claims against Venezuelan cartels. Recent Chinese coast guard entries into Taiwanese waters near Kinmen underscore this escalating assertiveness.

Chatham House analysts predict Russia will cite the US strikes to defend its Ukraine invasion, while China leverages it in Taiwan rhetoric. The Trump administration's designation of Venezuelan gangs as terrorist organisations evokes China's probes into Taiwanese figures, blurring lines between state and non-state threats.

Lucio Blanco Pitlo III notes Beijing could argue stronger historical claims over Taiwan than the US has in the Caribbean, potentially turning the South China Sea into a "Chinese lake".

Broader implications extend to spheres of influence, with Trump's Ukraine peace proposals favouring Russia now under scrutiny amid this precedent. Uncertainty over US arms commitments to Taiwan—despite $10 billion sales—amplifies fears, as Xi Jinping eyes reunification. Iranian parallels are drawn too, given Trump's threats there, but focus remains on how Venezuela normalises regime change via force.

Ongoing coverage tracks these alarms in real-time, with Latin American outcry and ally support like from Ukraine contrasting sharply. As Maduro faces charges in New York, the operation's fallout risks a cascade of escalations, where powers invoke US justification for their own interventions. Analysts urge multilateral restraint to prevent a new era of unchecked great-power adventurism.

International Agencies

Comments

Continue Reading

China's Six Naval Vessels, One Official Ship Encircle Taiwan

Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence (MND) reported detecting six People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) vessels, one official ship, and two Chinese balloons operating around the island's territorial waters as of 6am local time on Friday.

The Republic of China (ROC) Armed Forces monitored the situation closely and responded in accordance with standard protocols.

This incursion follows a pattern of heightened Chinese military activity. Just a day earlier, on Thursday, Taiwan tracked three sorties of PLA aircraft, 17 PLAN vessels, and eight official ships encircling the island.

One of these aircraft sorties crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan's southwestern Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ), prompting a swift response from Taiwanese forces.

The median line, an unofficial but long-respected boundary in the Taiwan Strait, serves as a de facto buffer to prevent escalatory incidents. Chinese incursions into Taiwan's ADIZ have surged in recent years, with over 1,700 violations recorded in 2025 alone, according to MND data. These operations test Taiwan's defensive readiness and signal Beijing's persistent claim over the island.

Taiwan's National Security Council Secretary-General Joseph Wu, a former Foreign Minister, publicly thanked the United States for its New Year's Day statement urging restraint from China. In a post on X, Wu described the drills as "provocative and escalatory," designed to intimidate nations across the Indo-Pacific region.

Wu emphasised that China's actions threaten civilian air and maritime traffic while raising the risk of miscalculation. The US State Department's call for de-escalation underscores growing international concern over Beijing's military posturing, which has intensified since President Lai Ching-te's inauguration in May 2024.

These latest naval manoeuvres align with broader PLA exercises reported in recent Economic Times coverage. China has conducted large-scale live-fire drills around Taiwan, involving naval blockades, air incursions, and drone operations, often in response to perceived provocations from Taipei or Washington.

The involvement of balloons adds a psychological dimension to the operations. Similar to high-altitude incursions seen in 2023 over North America, these devices challenge surveillance capabilities and symbolise low-cost harassment tactics employed by the PLA.

Taiwan's response remains measured yet resolute. The MND routinely deploys fighter jets, naval patrols, and missile defence systems to shadow intruding forces, avoiding direct confrontation while demonstrating deterrence. This "porcupine strategy" relies on asymmetric capabilities to make any invasion prohibitively costly.

From a strategic perspective, these encirclements rehearse blockade scenarios central to China's anti-access/area denial (A2/AD) doctrine. Beijing aims to isolate Taiwan economically and militarily, potentially without firing a shot, as highlighted in recent US intelligence assessments projecting PLA readiness by 2027.

President Xi Jinping's ongoing military modernisation, including anti-corruption purges within the PLA, underscores preparations for high-stakes contingencies. Reports indicate systemic reforms to ensure loyalty and operational efficacy amid Taiwan's existential threat.

Regionally, the Philippines has invited India to join the "Squad" alliance—comprising the US, Australia, Japan, and itself—to counter China's naval dominance in the South China Sea. This reflects a multi-layered Indo-Pacific security architecture increasingly involving New Delhi.

Japan has voiced support for closer ties with India and South Korea to balance Chinese assertiveness. Such alignments complicate Beijing's calculus, potentially deterring aggression through collective deterrence.

Taiwan is deepening military exchanges with the US, emphasising intelligence sharing, table-top exercises, and enhancements to long-range precision strikes. The island's 2025 Quadrennial Defence Review prioritises interoperability to bolster command, control, surveillance, and reconnaissance amid rising threats.

Economically, Taiwan proposes aiding India in reducing its trade deficit with China via a free trade pact. Deputy National Security Adviser Hsu Szu-Chien suggests leveraging Taiwanese tech investments to diversify India's electronics supply chain away from Beijing.

Globally, US intelligence chiefs have flagged China as the foremost military and cyber threat, with ambitions to lead in AI by 2030 and potential aggression towards Taiwan. Cooperation among China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea further heightens risks to US-led order.

In this context, President Trump's administration faces domestic scrutiny over defence leaks, including texts revealing strategies against China. Speculation swirls around figures like Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, even as plans advance for systems like the "Golden Dome" missile shield.

Boeing's NGAD contract for the F-47 fighter bolsters US air superiority, integrating stealth and drones to counter PLA advancements. Meanwhile, Oracle's air-gapped cloud deal with Singapore signals allied investments in secure tech amid regional tensions.

For Taiwan, these encirclements are not isolated provocations but part of a "grey zone" campaign eroding resolve. President William Lai has called for tougher countermeasures against Chinese infiltration, espionage, and psychological warfare.

As 2026 unfolds, with India's record defence contracts worth ₹2-3 lakh crore signalling its own procurement surge, the Indo-Pacific braces for sustained competition. Taiwan's vigilance, backed by allies, remains key to preserving the status quo across the strait.

Based On ANI Report

Comments

Continue Reading

China's Boastful Superior Weapons Claims Crumble In Real Combat Conditions

China's "Justice Mission 2025" exercises, conducted from 29 to 30 December 2025, marked the sixth major military drill around Taiwan since 2022, involving the People's Liberation Army's air force, navy, army, and rocket forces across five designated zones.

These manoeuvres simulated blockades, live-fire operations, and control of key ports, aimed at projecting Beijing's dominance over the Taiwan Strait amid heightened tensions.

The drills followed a US$11 billion US arms sale to Taiwan and Japanese statements linking a potential Chinese blockade to national survival, underscoring the geopolitical flashpoint.

Beijing released footage to emphasise its missile launches and air superiority, portraying readiness to encircle and seize Taiwan while intimidating global observers. State messaging framed the exercises as a stern warning against separatism, with psychological operations targeting Taiwanese morale.

Yet, this display of might quickly unravelled when Taiwanese forces countered effectively, exposing vulnerabilities in China's advanced platforms.

Taiwanese F-16V Viper fighters, upgraded with US-supplied advanced avionics including AN/APG-83 AESA radars and Sniper targeting pods, achieved radar locks on PLA J-16 multirole fighters during the exercises.

Footage shared by Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence showed these fourth-generation jets silently tracking the J-16s, contradicting Chinese claims of superior stealth and jamming resistance. Had Taiwan opted for engagement, multiple J-16s could have been downed, revealing a stark performance gap.

The J-16, a Flanker derivative touted by Beijing for its AESA radar with 200-250 km detection range and electronic warfare suites, proved trackable by Taiwan's upgraded F-16Vs.

These Vipers feature passive detection via infrared search and track systems alongside active radars, allowing silent locks without emissions that could alert foes. This incident highlights how real-world integration of sensors and tactics can neutralise hyped capabilities.

Taiwan leveraged social media strategically, disseminating images and videos of the locks to boost domestic morale and wage narrative warfare against Beijing. This transparent approach reassures citizens of readiness while subtly undermining PLA invincibility claims. Analysts note it as a sophisticated deterrent, blending operational demos with information operations.

Defence experts view this as emblematic of China's rhetoric-reality disconnect, where boasts of superiority falter under scrutiny. Parallels emerge with Russia's Ukrainian setbacks, where numerical edges yielded to tactical proficiency and resolve from smaller forces. Overconfidence in untested systems risks strategic embarrassment for Beijing in any Taiwan campaign.

Taiwan's posture, fortified by US arms and allied support, maintains the balance despite China's asset volume. International scrutiny, including from Japan, amplifies the costs of escalation. These episodes serve as checks on aggression, affirming that preparation trumps propaganda in contested skies.

Agencies

​

Comments

Continue Reading

'Reunification of Our Motherland Unstoppable': Chinese President Xi Jinping's New Year Message

China's President Xi Jinping delivered a resolute New Year message on 31 December 2025, declaring that the "reunification of our motherland" remains an unstoppable historical inevitability.

This statement came mere hours after the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Eastern Theatre Command concluded its "Justice Mission 2025" military exercises encircling Taiwan.

The drills involved a comprehensive deployment of PLA Army, Navy, Air Force, and Rocket Force units across the Taiwan Strait and surrounding regions to the north, southwest, southeast, and east of the island. Beijing framed these operations as a demonstration of resolve, coinciding with the 80th anniversary commemorations of China's victory in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression.

Xi's address, relayed through the Chinese Foreign Ministry, emphasised national unity and historical remembrance. He noted the "majestic and powerful" national events marking the anniversary, which included establishing a "Taiwan Recovery Day". These occasions, he said, inspire the Chinese people to honour history, cherish peace, and advance national rejuvenation.

The President highlighted recent unity among Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao during the National Games opening ceremony. He reaffirmed commitment to the "One Country, Two Systems" policy, urging these regions to integrate into China's broader development while ensuring long-term prosperity and stability.

Turning to Taiwan, Xi invoked shared "blood and kinship" across the Strait, positioning reunification as an inexorable trend. His words underscore Beijing's long-standing claim over the self-governing island, which China views as a breakaway province inseparable from the mainland.

Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence responded sharply to the exercises. Minister Wellington Koo condemned the PLA's actions as provocative, arguing they undermine regional stability and heighten tensions in the Indo-Pacific.

The "Justice Mission 2025" manoeuvres represent an escalation in China's military posturing around Taiwan. Analysts note the drills' scale—encompassing multi-domain operations—signals Beijing's growing capability for potential blockade or invasion scenarios, testing Taiwan's defences and international resolve.

This follows a pattern of intensified PLA activity. Throughout 2025, China has conducted frequent sorties into Taiwan's Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ), with recent reports of three aircraft, 17 vessels, and eight ships detected, including one crossing the median line.

Xi's timing of the message amplifies its strategic weight. Delivered on New Year's Eve as drills wrapped up, it blends festive nationalism with military signalling, reinforcing domestic support while warning Taipei and its allies.

Internationally, the exercises have drawn condemnation. The US Pentagon's latest annual report on China's military, released on 23 December 2025, highlights the PLA's expanding threat, particularly its rapid modernisation and Taiwan-focused capabilities.

Taiwan has bolstered its defences amid these pressures, conducting its own drills and seeking advanced weaponry from partners like the United States. The island's leadership maintains that peace depends on deterrence, not capitulation to coercion.

Beijing's narrative frames reunification as a patriotic imperative, but critics argue it masks aggressive intent. Accompanying disinformation campaigns have intensified, with Taiwan warning of fabricated narratives aimed at eroding public morale during the drills.

India has watched these developments closely, given its own border tensions with China. Domestic voices, including AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi and Congress MP Jairam Ramesh, have urged New Delhi to rebut Beijing's claims of mediating the recent India-Pakistan standoff, prioritising sovereignty.

The broader geopolitical context reveals China's multi-front strategy. While pressuring Taiwan, it expands influence elsewhere—from Irish universities raising alarms over academic infiltration to South Asia analysts dismissing Beijing's mediation boasts as sceptical posturing.

As 2026 dawns, Xi's message sets a confrontational tone. The PLA's Eastern Theatre Command, responsible for the Taiwan theatre, emerges more battle-ready, with integrated joint operations showcasing interoperability across services.

Taiwan remains defiant, with its military tracking incursions and allies like the US, Japan, and Australia conducting freedom-of-navigation operations. The risk calculus in the Strait grows precarious, where miscalculation could spark wider conflict.

Beijing's reunification rhetoric persists amid stalled cross-Strait dialogue. Tsai Ing-wen's administration rejects preconditions for talks, while Xi demands adherence to the 1992 Consensus, which Taipei disputes.

Economic interdependence complicates the standoff. Taiwan produces over 90% of the world's advanced semiconductors, making any disruption globally catastrophic. Yet military drills persist, normalising high-tempo operations near the island.

The end of "Justice Mission 2025" offers no respite. PLA activity shows no signs of abating, with daily ADIZ violations routine. Xi's New Year vow signals sustained pressure, testing the endurance of Taiwan's defences and its partners' commitments.

For regional powers like India, these events underscore the need for vigilance. China's assertive posture—from Ladakh to the South China Sea—demands robust deterrence, diversified partnerships, and technological self-reliance in defence.

As the world enters 2026, the Taiwan Strait epitomises great-power rivalry. Xi's unstoppable reunification pledge clashes with democratic resilience, leaving the Indo-Pacific on edge for potential flashpoints ahead.

Based On ANI Report

Comments

Continue Reading