War Alert: Military Drill Encircles Taiwan, Liaoning Aircraft Deployed... Is China Planning a Takeover?

A looming threat from China over Taiwan, with military operations 'Joint Sword 2024B' underway. Taiwan is primed for defense, declaring a war alert. The United States stands in support of Taiwan.
China initiates extensive military drills surrounding Taiwan, deploying its Liaoning aircraft carrier. (Image: Reuters)

Source: aajtak

Taiwan is currently under a War Alert, which is an urgent warning before the onset of conflict. China has strategically surrounded Taiwan under the guise of military aggression dubbed Joint Sword 2024B. Naval fleets and fighter jets have positioned themselves to the north, south, east, and west of Taiwan.

The Chinese military effectively isolation Taiwan from the global arena. Despite this, Taiwan’s forces remain combat-ready. Should China attempt an advancement in the name of this drill, the world might witness a new confrontation.

Taiwanese Forces Prepare Amid Tensions

Source: aajtak

The situation could evolve into a serious crisis similar to recent global tensions. China's Joint Sword 2024B involves an impressive deployment of warships and combat aircraft steered by the Eastern Theater Command. Prior this year, Joint Sword 2024A was conducted on May 23-24.

Taiwanian Military on High Alert

Upon spotting China’s aircraft carrier Liaoning near its maritime boundary, Taiwan set off its war alert—signaling immediate readiness for battle. As the Liaoning carrier group entered the Bashi Channel heading towards the Pacific Ocean, Taiwan promptly declared an alert.

China Returns Provocative Presence

Source: aajtak

Taiwan’s Defense Ministry announced a state of heightened vigilance among its ranks, emphasizing readiness for any exigent response. Chinese military activities around Taiwan have notably surged in recent years, with persistent naval and air patrols infringing upon territorial limits.

Following US Warnings, China Mobilizes Carrier

U.S. Secretary of State Blinken cautioned China against provocative acts against Taiwan. Shortly before, on Taiwan's Independence Day, President Lai Ching-te delivered a significant speech. Amid these diplomatic exchanges, China mobilized the Liaoning carrier group amid the ongoing drills—a move deemed antagonistic by Taiwan’s government.

Learn More: China's Anaconda Strategy That Startles Taiwan
Liaoning Aircraft Carrier Profile

Source: aajtak

The People's Liberation Army Navy's Type 001 Aircraft Carrier Liaoning is globally ranked as the fourth largest warship. Originally designed under the Kuznetsov-class framework, China integrated advanced domestic features to tailor its capabilities. Measuring 304.5 meters in length and with a beam of 75 meters, it displaces 58,000 tons while carrying up to 50 aircraft and helicopters.

Taiwan Deploys Fighter Jets and Missile Systems

Taiwan’s military has strategically placed Hsiung Feng III anti-ship missiles near coastal areas under Chinese maneuvers. These specialized air defense systems are engineered to neutralize enemy ships and aircraft. They are capable of targeting vessels mid-air, enhanced by advanced missile variants.

Additionally, Taiwan’s fleet of F-16 V fighter jets is actively patrolling its borders. These jets, equipped with liquid-fuel ramjet engines, solid fuel main boosters, and side boosters, achieve formidable speeds of 4322 km/hr over a range of 400 kilometers, securing a tactical edge over adversaries in any conflict scenario.

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