The Taiwan Ministry of Defence (MND) reported on Wednesday that it had detected the presence of Chinese military vessels operating near the nation.

According to the ministry, seven People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) vessels and four China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels were observed in the vicinity up until 6 a.m. local time.

The Taiwan Armed Forces (ROCArmedForces) closely monitored the situation and responded accordingly.

"Today, 7 PLAN vessels and 4 CCG vessels were detected operating around Taiwan up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8). #ROCArmedForces has monitored the situation and responded accordingly," stated the Taiwan MND in a release.

Earlier on Tuesday, the ministry had reported the presence of eight Chinese naval vessels in the area until 6 p.m. The same day, six PLA aircraft and seven PLAN vessels were observed near Taiwan until 6 a.m., with six of the aircraft crossing the median line into Taiwan's northern and southwestern Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ).

In response to these developments, Taiwan dispatched naval ships and deployed coastal-based missile systems to monitor the activity of the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN), as per the MND.

This latest incident signifies a concerning escalation in tensions between Taiwan and China, which has long asserted sovereignty over the island, reported Taiwan News.

The increased presence of Chinese military assets near Taiwan underscores the ongoing geopolitical tensions in the region. Taiwan has frequently expressed concerns about China's military activities and its ambitions to reunify Taiwan with the mainland, even if it requires the use of force.

For decades, the median line of the Taiwan Strait served as an informal border between China and Taiwan. However, China's military has been more active, sending aircraft, warships, and drones across it since former United States House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan in August 2022.

"Grey zone tactics," which are efforts beyond normal deterrence and assurance, aim to achieve security objectives without resorting to direct and significant use of force.

China Imposes Sanctions on Boeing and Two U.S. Defense Firms Over Taiwan Arms Sales

Taiwan Swears in New President Amid Rising Tensions with China

Taiwan Reports Increased Chinese Military Presence Near Its Borders

Rising Tensions: Taiwan Reports Surge in Chinese Military Activity Near Island