Taiwan’s Defense Ministry Reports on Chinese Satellite Launch and Military Activities
The Ministry of National Defense stated that a Chinese satellite launch poses no threat to Taiwan due to its altitude. Ongoing monitoring detected Chinese military activities around Taiwan, including aircraft and vessels. Additionally, Taiwan condemned illegal fishing by Chinese vessels near the Pratas Islands. Furthermore, there have been significant cancellations of part-time programs in Taiwanese universities due to low birthrates and other trends.
On a recent occasion, the Ministry of National Defense (MND) of Taiwan confirmed that a satellite launched by China posed no threat, citing its altitude. The satellite was launched from the Xichang Satellite Launch Center in Sichuan Province at 11:55 PM and traversed over Taiwan en route to the western Pacific Ocean.
The MND reassured the public that the satellite’s trajectory beyond the Earth’s atmosphere eliminated any potential risks to Taiwan. The ministry stated that it would continue to utilize its C4ISR systems for monitoring and would remain prepared to respond to any emerging threats.
In addition, the MND reported detecting 20 Chinese aircraft and seven naval vessels near Taiwan within the past 24 hours. Of these, twelve aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered designated air defense identification zones, prompting action from Taiwan’s armed forces, which deployed patrol aircraft and naval vessels as a precautionary measure.
Moreover, Taiwan condemned a recent surge in Chinese fishing vessels, escorted by coast guard ships, illegally operating in and around the Pratas Islands since mid-February. The Coast Guard Administration (CGA) noted extensive groups of vessels, including motherships and smaller boats, were documented and that efforts were made to repel Chinese incursions into Taiwan’s territorial waters.
In a broader context, Taiwan’s educational landscape is undergoing changes, with a significant number of part-time postgraduate programs being canceled. Experts attribute these closures to factors including a declining birthrate, with 86 programs, primarily in education-related fields, scrapped this year alone, marking the highest number in the past five years.
Finally, according to the MND’s Quadrennial Defense Review, the Chinese military has enhanced its capabilities to execute high-tempo operations through advanced technology and strategic developments targeting Taiwan. The Ministry noted these advancements signify a shift in the People’s Liberation Army’s strategy for conflict with Taiwan, underscoring the government’s concern about increased espionage risks posed by pro-China elements within Taiwan.
In summary, Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense has addressed concerns regarding a Chinese satellite launch, establishing no immediate threat from the satellite’s passage. The MND is actively monitoring military activities and has reported illegal Chinese fishing operations near the Pratas Islands. Concurrently, educational institutions in Taiwan are adapting to demographic changes, leading to the cancellation of various programs. The Chinese military continues to evolve, presenting ongoing challenges for Taiwan’s national security.
Original Source: www.taipeitimes.com
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