China again flew 52 fighter jets towards self-ruled Taiwan on Monday, a few days later of flying some 25 fighter planes on its National Day. The latest move is the largest show of force on record, continuing the three days of sustained military harassment against Taiwan.
The sorties included 12 H-6 bombers and 34 J-16 fighter jets, among other aircraft, according to Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense. Taiwanese air force scrambled the jets and closely tracked the movement of the Chinese aircraft on its air defense system.
The number of flights into Taiwan’s air defense identification zone had prompted a statement from US State Department spokesperson Ned Price over the weekend, who warned that Chinese military activity near Taiwan risks miscalculation and subdues peace and stability in the area.
“We urge Beijing to cease its military, diplomatic, and economic pressure and coercion against Taiwan,” the statement said.
