China has executed its largest naval deployment around Taiwan in nearly 30 years, signaling a significant escalation in regional tensions.
According to a Taiwanese national security memo reported by Nikkei Asia, more than 90 navy and coast guard vessels have been deployed by Beijing across the region. This area encompasses Taiwan, Japan’s Okinawa Prefecture, and the Philippines, collectively referred to as the “first island chain.” The memo describes the operation as Beijing’s largest fleet mobilization in decades, noting that preparations took approximately 70 days. Analysts believe China is also testing the winter maneuverability of its maritime forces.
Earlier this year, China conducted two major military exercises near Taiwan and was expected to hold a third in response to Taiwanese Vice President Lai Cheng-te’s recent tour of Pacific allies, including the Marshall Islands, Tuvalu, and Palau, as well as Hawaii and Guam in the United States. Lai’s trip, which drew strong opposition from Beijing, followed a U.S. approval of arms sales to Taiwan. Chinese authorities labeled Lai a “separatist” and vowed “strong countermeasures” against perceived provocations.
China’s actions have drawn criticism from Taiwanese officials and lawmakers, who warn of the broader implications for regional security. Wang Ting-yu, a senior lawmaker and co-chairman of Taiwan’s defense committee, stated that Beijing is attempting to assert control over the first island chain, likening it to an “inland sea.” Wang highlighted that this moves targets not only Taiwan but also democratic nations such as Japan, South Korea, and the Philippines, alongside U.S. allies including Australia and Canada.
Wang emphasized the need for military cooperation and regional security alliances to counter China’s growing ambitions. “Taiwan must strengthen its capabilities and foster deeper collaboration with democratic nations to deter China’s aggression,” Wang said.
Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry echoed these concerns, stating: “The large-scale military build-up has introduced insecurity and risk to the region, undermining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. China is increasingly viewed as a destabilizing force.”
China maintains that its actions are a direct response to “separatist activities” and foreign interference. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning reiterated the country’s commitment to the one-China principle during a press briefing. Mao warned against crossing the “red line” of the Taiwan issue in Sino-U.S. relations, affirming that China will “resolutely defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity.”
The developments underscore the heightened geopolitical stakes in the Taiwan Strait and the broader Indo-Pacific region, as tensions between China, Taiwan, and Western allies continue to escalate.
