Kathmandu— Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence reported on Sunday that four People's Liberation Army aircraft sorties, six People's Liberation Army Navy vessels, and nine official ships were detected operating around the island until 6 a.m. local time. Two of the aircraft sorties crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern and southwestern Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ).

Increased Military Presence Detected

The Ministry of National Defence (MND) confirmed that the Republic of China Armed Forces monitored and responded to the detected activity. This follows a significant period of military movement on Saturday, when the ministry reported 14 aircraft sorties, six navy vessels, and eight official ships operating in the region.

During Saturday's activity, 11 of the 14 aircraft sorties crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern and southwestern ADIZ.

Domestic Defense Developments

The heightened military activity occurs as Taiwan continues to advance its domestic defense capabilities. In June, Taiwan's first domestically built submarine departed from the Port of Kaohsiung for a series of sea trials.

According to reports from Focus Taiwan, these trials included dive tests and marked the submarine's 15th sea trial overall and its ninth submerged navigation test.

Historical and Political Context

The military tension is rooted in a complex dispute over sovereignty. Beijing asserts that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China, a position supported by national policy and domestic laws. This claim traces back to the Qing Dynasty's annexation of the island in 1683.

Taiwan maintains a distinct identity, operating independently with its own government, military, and economy. The island's status remains a major point of international debate regarding the principles of sovereignty and self-determination.

The Republic of China Armed Forces continue to monitor the situation in the region.

(With inputs from ANI)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.