Beijing has sent ships to patrol the waters east of Taiwan. This marks a new campaign to challenge Taiwan’s control over crucial waters in any potential future invasion.
Chinese coast guard patrols around Taiwan have previously focused on the strait between the island and the mainland. However, recent actions involve conducting patrols in the Western Pacific waters east of the island. This self-ruled territory of 23 million people is claimed by Beijing.
The Western Pacific is heavily trafficked with commercial vessels and holds strategic importance. In the event of an attempted blockade or invasion of Taiwan, these waters would play a key role.
China’s coast guard ships are larger, well-equipped, and serve as a complement to the naval forces. These ships have been crucial in Beijing’s efforts to establish dominance in the disputed South China Sea. They employ aggressive tactics such as swarming, ramming, and using water cannons.
During these patrols, the coast guard aims to reinforce China’s territorial sovereignty and maritime rights. The China Coast Guard stated on Saturday that its vessels will strengthen law enforcement in waters under China’s jurisdiction.
By Sunday, the Xiushan and Chongming ships were positioned between 80 and 140 miles off Taiwan’s east coast, reported Ou Yu-fei, a Taiwan Coast Guard Administration official.
Chinese coast guard ships have previously operated east of Taiwan, often during military drills. The current patrols are distinguished by their intensity, coordination, and clear political motivations. Ray Powell, a former U.S. Air Force officer and director of SeaLight, noted that these actions signify a shift in China’s maritime pressure strategy.
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