Graphic shows air incursions since January 2021.
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MILITARY

China expands air and sea presence

By Phil Bainbridge

January 24, 2022 - China’s air force flew 39 warplanes into Taiwan’s air defence identification zone (ADIZ) on January 23, the largest daily number since record-breaking incursions in October, while establishing a constant naval presence close to southern Japan and eastern Taiwan. This marked expansion of Beijing’s sea power has focused attention on the area as a potential future battleground.

Thirty-four fighter jets, four electronic warfare aircraft and a bomber from the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) are reported to have flown in an area to the northeast of the Pratas Islands.

The Taiwan Air Force scrambled combat aircraft and issued radio warnings, activating its air defence missile systems. Taiwan describes these activities as “grey zone” warfare, designed to both wear out Taiwan’s forces by making them repeatedly scramble, and also to test Taiwan’s responses.

This is the largest incursion since Taiwan reported 148 PLAAF planes in the southern and southwestern part of the ADIZ over four days starting October 1, coinciding with China’s National Day, a major patriotic holiday. Tensions could continue to rise in 2022, with key political events looming including Chinese President Xi Jinping facing the Party Congress where he is expected to secure a third term in power, and Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen going into elections which are likely to be a litmus test for the next presidential race.

Sources
PUBLISHED: 24/01/2022; STORY: Graphic News
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