BEIJING: China has taken a more aggressive military stance toward Taiwan holding more battle-ready exercises near the self-ruled island since the beginning of the year, according to Mainland analysts. 
On 8 July, the Chinese Eastern Theater Command of the People's Liberation Army conducted several large-scale joint battle-preparation exercises in the waters and airspace surrounding Taiwan.

While no details were given about the exercise Eastern Theater Command spokesman Xi Yi told reporters that the command is on high alert and has increased military training to prepare for combat. The exercise took place in conjunction with US Senator Rick Scott's visit to Taiwan, during which he met key Taiwanese leaders, including President Tsai Ing-wen and Premier Su Tseng-chang.

A further two Chinese war-preparation exercises were conducted in April and May, around the time that American politicians visited the island. In late May, US Senator Tammy Duckworth made a three-day visit to Taiwan, where she met with the Taiwanese president and reiterated America's support. In mid-April, six US lawmakers made an unannounced visit to the island. The Chinese military condemned the visits, saying they put Taiwan in danger.

Beijing has also increased regular military exercises in the vicinity of Taiwan, holding three large-scale exercises in May alone.
According to Ridzwan Rahmat, principal defense analyst at global intelligence firm Jens Chinese military operations have not only increased in frequency but have also involved a wide range of military weapons and assets.

These operations have progressed from regular constabulary patrols to more expeditionary missions. In other words China is not only building up its forces to defend Taiwan but attacking a potential adversary before it can even reach the disputed island," Rahmat explained.
According to Rahmat, there has also been an increase in China's operations in and around the Bashi Channel between Taiwan and the Philippines.

From China's point of view, it is important that this waterway remains unobstructed and free of hostile submarines during the war."
Former Chinese military instructor Song Zhongping said the Chinese military needed to increase the frequency and intensity of exercises to strengthen its power and prepare for a real conflict.

I believe that if Taiwan moves closer to the US, future exercises will grow in size and intensity," Song said. "It is a natural response to years of practice by China in the region, as well as Beijing's." A practical way to strengthen your strength. prevention capability."
However, Derek Grossman, a senior defense analyst at US think tank RAND, said he does not see any significant change in Chinese military posture or exercises involving Taiwan.

Everything appears to be normal referring to the island's air defense detection area. Chinese flights more than doubled from 2020 to 2021, reaching an average of 2.6 flights per day.

Chinese diplomat turns to Africa in response to western allure

Why China, unlike Russia, will not comment on Central Asian civil unrest

Military talks between India and China will take place on July 17