China-Taiwan conflict escalates: PLA simulates precision strikes, naval stand-off intensifies

China-Taiwan tensions escalate as PLA simulates precision strikes in "combat readiness" exercises. Taiwanese forces respond to Chinese aggression.

TIH BUREAU, NEW DELHI | Tensions in the Taiwan Strait have reached a new high as the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) of China initiated advanced “combat readiness” exercises, featuring simulated precision strikes on strategic sites across Taiwan and surrounding waters. These operations, now in their second consecutive day, highlight China’s evolving military posture and risk factors for regional stability.

Strategic Air and Naval Maneuvers

According to official Taiwanese sources, the conflict zone has witnessed intensive aerial and maritime activity. By early morning, Taiwan’s Defense Ministry reported sightings of 71 PLA aircraft and 9 People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) vessels operating around the island. Naval forces from both sides—at least 10 warships from each nation—are reportedly in a tense stand-off along the median line of the Taiwan Strait, a critical buffer that divides the two militaries.

Taiwanese Armed Forces quickly activated Combat Air Patrol (CAP) aircraft, deployed naval assets, and readied land-based missile units in response to escalating moves by China. These defensive maneuvers underline Taiwan’s robust, multi-layered response capability amid growing pressure from the PLA.

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Context and PLA’s "Joint Sword" Exercise

Chinese military exercises have intensified following Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen’s brief diplomatic visit to the United States, which Beijing interpreted as provocation. The PLA’s ongoing “Joint Sword” drills are described as a deterrent against perceived collusion between Taiwan’s pro-independence elements and foreign actors—specifically targeting efforts to formalize Taiwan’s independence, which China has repeatedly indicated could trigger military action.

The drills are extensive: they include the mobilization of destroyers, missile boats, advanced ballistic and anti-ship missiles, electronic warfare units, tanker aircraft, early warning systems, and more. This breadth demonstrates the PLA’s readiness to conduct multi-domain operations, potentially aimed at overwhelming Taiwan’s defenses in the event of large-scale conflict.

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Military Analysts: Strategic Implications

Expert analyses suggest that any direct attack may be preceded by a Chinese attempt to blockade Taiwan’s access by sea and air, thereby isolating the island from crucial allies such as the United States and Japan. Successful implementation would restrict military and humanitarian aid, amplifying pressure on Taiwan to capitulate without a full-scale invasion.

China’s broader strategic message, according to state media, is to assert dominance over the region, build deterrence, and suppress opposition through rapid escalation and information warfare. Saturday’s PLA tests reportedly focused on assessing China’s capabilities to dominate sea, air, and the electromagnetic spectrum—a modern approach consistent with global trends in integrated deterrence operations.

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Historical and Political Context

The roots of the conflict date back to 1949, when Taiwan separated from mainland China following a brutal civil war. China’s Communist government remains committed to eventual reunification, insisting that international outreach by Taiwanese officials encourages separatist ambitions, and warning that official independence would prompt military intervention.

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Expert Outlook and Diplomatic Pathways

The current stand-off demonstrates the increasing sophistication and scale of Chinese military exercises near Taiwan, raising concerns about regional stability and the risks of escalation. Defense experts urge policymakers in Beijing, Taipei, and allied capitals to prioritize diplomatic engagement and crisis communication to avert miscalculation and maintain peace.

Sustained dialogue, restraint in military signaling, and confidence-building measures remain essential. As operational capabilities improve—the likelihood and potential impact of any conflict rises, underlining the urgency of responsible international leadership.