China has once again fueled invasion concerns after its military declared readiness to “resolutely smash” any form of independence in Taiwan.
The declaration comes as the US allegedly prepares to accelerate the supply of weapons and equipment to the self-governing island.
Chinese defense ministry spokesman Col. Tan Kefei considers deepening US-Taiwan relations an “extremely wrong” and “dangerous” move.
He further said that the country’s People’s Liberation Army continues to strengthen military training and preparations to “resolutely defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity.”
Beijing insists that Taipei is part of its territory and should be brought under its control “by force” if necessary.
US Support
The US has become Taiwan’s major arms supplier amid increasing fears of a Chinese invasion.
Earlier this month, Washington ordered four MQ-9B SkyGuardian drones from General Atomics for Taiwan.
The unmanned systems will reportedly be used to monitor China, which has ramped up military activities near the island.
In the latest development, US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin confirmed that Washington will send an additional $500 million in military equipment to its Asian ally “in the near term.”
The package could reportedly include a variety of missile weapons, including the man-portable Stinger anti-aircraft missiles, TOW 2B Aero anti-tank missiles, and new Javelin mid-range anti-armor missiles.
Increasing Military Activities
China continues to catch the attention of the international community with its increasing military activities around Taiwan.
Threats have been piling up as the Asian military superpower regularly sends planes and warships into waters and airspace around the island.
Beijing’s incursions into Taiwan’s air defense zone nearly doubled in 2022, with the surge most notable in fighter jets and bomber aircraft.
Chinese fighter jets and warships also simulated strikes on Taipei last month in response to its president meeting with US House Speaker Kevin McCarthy.