Taiwan vigilant due to increased missile tests in Northern China

Taiwan’s Defense Ministry announced on Saturday that it was closely monitoring “ a wave of” missile tests occurring in Inner Mongolia, a region in northern China. The ministry stated that its air defense forces were on high alert in response to these activities.

Taiwan, governed democratically and considered by China as part of its territory, maintains strict vigilance over Chinese military movements, although it rarely discloses specific details about activities within China itself.

According to the ministry, China’s Rocket Force conducted several test launches starting from 4 a.m. in Inner Mongolia, approximately 2,000 kilometers (1,200 miles) away from Taiwan. Taiwan’s defense forces continue to monitor the situation closely, with the air defense systems on standby, though specific operational details were not disclosed.

China’s Defense Ministry did not respond to inquiries outside of regular office hours. The Rocket Force oversees both conventional and nuclear missile capabilities in China.

Previously, in August 2022, China had conducted missile launches into waters near Taiwan during military exercises, expressing displeasure over a visit to Taipei by then-U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

Taiwan maintains advanced radar stations on high peaks in its central mountain range, allowing surveillance deep into Chinese territory, according to security sources.

China has intensified military pressure, including conducting military drills, since Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te assumed office in May. Lai has expressed willingness to engage in dialogue with China but has been met with rejection, asserting that Taiwan’s future should be determined by its own people rather than by Beijing’s sovereignty claims.