Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defence reported on July 2, 2026, that 22 Chinese military aircraft were detected near its territory, with 20 crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait into the island’s Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ). The aircraft, including J-16 fighter jets, H-6 bombers, and KJ-500 early warning planes, later moved toward the western Pacific to conduct joint air-sea training exercises.
The incursions began at 06:53 local time and were monitored closely by Taiwan’s Armed Forces, which deployed appropriate countermeasures. Officials emphasized that such maneuvers represent a growing pattern of military pressure from Beijing, which has intensified activity around Taiwan in recent months.
Earlier the same day, Taiwan also detected five PLA aircraft sorties, two of which entered the southwestern ADIZ, along with six Chinese naval vessels and five official ships operating near its waters. Authorities stressed that Taiwan maintains vigilance and readiness to safeguard its sovereignty and security.
The incident underscores rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific region, with analysts warning that frequent incursions increase the risk of miscalculation or accidental clashes. Taiwan reiterated its commitment to defending its territory and called on China to respect principles of sovereignty and non-interference.
