Recently, Taiwan's military expert, Retired Air Force Lieutenant General Chang Yen-ting, expressed concerns over Chinese warplanes nearing Taiwan, as depicted in a Ministry of National Defence chart showing two fighter jets breaching the Taiwan Strait median line and approaching Keelung city. Chang highlighted the limited time for Taiwan's military to respond adequately, with the potential for a PLA aircraft to reach Taipei's Presidential Office within four to five minutes. He emphasized the critical six-minute window required for Taiwanese warplanes to intercept intruding PLA aircraft, underscoring the urgency of being prepared for such scenarios.
In response to Chang's warning, Taiwan's defence Minister Chiu Kuo-cheng reassured the public by mentioning the regular intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance system in place aimed at preventing such scenarios. Chiu acknowledged the reality that a fighter jet could reach the Presidential Office within three to five minutes if they are 41 nautical miles from Keelung, emphasizing the need for measures to counteract such threats. Additionally, Taiwan's military detected a Chinese oceanographic survey and research ship near Hualien County, prompting Chiu to mention that such occurrences are not uncommon, with responses ready from Taiwan's Coast Guard and military.
The Ministry of National Defence (MND) has been monitoring and reporting on Chinese military activities, including identifying aircraft and vessels crossing the Taiwan Strait median line over the years. Recent reports indicated a presence of Chinese naval vessels and military aircraft around Taiwan, raising concerns about China's increased military activities close to Taiwan. Meanwhile, China is reportedly trying to establish new air routes near Taiwan-controlled islands, seen as a move to exert pressure on Taiwan, with experts noting that China's actions may aim to redefine the status quo in the Taiwan Strait based on its terms.