Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence (MND) reported the detection of 22 sorties of Chinese military aircraft around the island on Thursday, July 2, 2026. Of these, 20 sorties crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern, central, and southwestern Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ), according to a post on X by the MND.
Details of the Incursion
The MND stated that the 22 sorties included various types of People's Liberation Army (PLA) aircraft, such as J-16, H-6, and KJ-500 aircraft, detected from 0653 hours local time. Twenty of these crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern, central, and southwestern ADIZ before heading to the western Pacific to conduct joint air-sea training and long-distance flights. The ROC Armed Forces have monitored the situation and responded accordingly, the MND added.
Earlier Activity on the Same Day
Earlier in the day, the MND detected five sorties of Chinese military aircraft, six naval vessels, and five official ships operating around Taiwan's territorial waters up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8). Of these, two aircraft crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's southwestern part ADIZ. The MND confirmed that the ROC Armed Forces have monitored the situation and responded.
Context: Taiwan's Submarine Trials
Meanwhile, Focus Taiwan reported that earlier in June, Taiwan's first domestically built submarine departed from the Port of Kaohsiung for its latest round of sea trials, which included dive tests. Citing the Military News Agency, Focus Taiwan said that the trial marked the submarine's 15th sea trial overall and its ninth submerged navigation test. This development occurs against the backdrop of China intensifying its military activity around Taiwan.
China's Stance on Taiwan
China's claim over Taiwan is a complex issue rooted in historical, political, and legal arguments. Beijing asserts that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China, a viewpoint embedded in national policy and upheld by domestic laws and international statements. Taiwan, however, maintains a distinct identity, functioning independently with its own government, military, and economy. Taiwan's status remains a significant point of international debate, testing the principles of sovereignty, self-determination, and non-interference in international law, as per the United Service Institution of India. China's claim to Taiwan originates from the Qing Dynasty's annexation of the island in 1683 after defeating Ming loyalist Koxinga.
