33 Chinese Military Aircraft Around Taiwan In Largest Show Of Force Since Poll
NDTV
Taiwan's armed forces have "monitored the situation and employed (air patrol) aircraft, Navy vessels, and coastal missile systems in response to the detected activities".
More than 30 Chinese military aircraft were detected around Taiwan in a 24-hour window, Taipei's defence ministry said Saturday, marking the largest show of force around the island since it held crucial elections.
China claims Taiwan as part of its territory, and has never renounced the use of force to try to bring the self-ruled island under its control.
Ahead of Taiwan's January 13 poll, Beijing warned voters that presidential candidate Lai Ching-te -- the current vice president whom China has called a "dangerous separatist" -- would bring "war and decline" if chosen to lead.
