Chinese vessels have concentrated their presence from the southern Yellow Sea into the East China Sea and the disputed South China Sea, extending into the waters of the Pacific. This surge in activity occurs amidst China's traditionally busy military exercise season, with authorities specifically highlighting the timing.

This increased naval deployment coincides with a diplomatic crisis between China and Japan, following remarks last month by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. Takaichi suggested that a potential Chinese attack on Taiwan could trigger Tokyo's military intervention. Beijing is also reportedly angered by Taiwan President Lai Ching-te's announcement last month of an additional $40 billion in defense spending aimed at countering China, which views the island as its own territory.

Over 90 Ships Deployed

According to four regional security officials, Chinese ships are concentrated from the southern Yellow Sea into the East China Sea, the disputed South China Sea, and extending into Pacific waters. Documents indicate that over 90 Chinese vessels were in the region as of this morning, a slight decrease from over 100 earlier in the week. Sources suggest these operations surpass China's extensive naval deployment in December last year, which prompted Taiwan to raise its alert level.

Taiwan National Security Bureau Director-General Tsai Ming-yen stated yesterday that China is currently in its most intensive military exercise season. Tsai noted that as of yesterday morning, China had deployed four naval formations in the Western Pacific, which Taiwan is actively tracking, though he did not provide further details. "Therefore, we must assess the enemy across the broadest possible spectrum and continue to closely monitor any changes in related activities," Tsai remarked.

Mock Attack Drills Conducted

A source speaking to Reuters indicated that some Chinese vessels, alongside warplanes, conducted mock attack drills targeting foreign ships in the region. These vessels also practiced access-denial operations, designed to prevent external forces from sending reinforcements in the event of a conflict. Two other sources noted that regional countries are closely monitoring these developments but do not currently view the deployment as posing a significant risk. One of these sources commented, "There's a large outflow. But it appears to be just routine exercises." China's last officially named exercise around Taiwan was "Strait Thunder-2025" in April. China never formally confirmed conducting exercises during its large-scale naval activities last December.

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