Taiwan’s defense ministry declared on Saturday that it was closely monitoring a series of missile tests taking place in China’s northern region of Inner Mongolia. The ministry confirmed that its air defense forces were on high alert in response to these activities. Taiwan, governed democratically, is viewed by China as its own territory and maintains a vigilant watch over all Chinese military actions, particularly given Beijing’s frequent maneuvers around the island. However, Taiwan rarely discloses specific details of military activities observed within China’s borders. According to the ministry, it detected “multiple waves of test launches” by China’s Rocket Force in Inner Mongolia, beginning at 4 a.m. (2000 GMT on Friday). Inner Mongolia is located approximately 2,000 km (1,200 miles) from Taiwan. The ministry emphasized that Taiwan’s forces are continuously tracking developments and the air defense forces are on alert. China’s defense ministry did not respond to requests for comment outside of office hours. The Rocket Force, responsible for China’s conventional and nuclear missile arsenal, has been a key element in China’s military modernization efforts. In August 2022, China fired missiles into the waters surrounding Taiwan during military exercises, expressing its displeasure at a visit to Taipei by then-Speaker of the US House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi. Taiwan operates advanced radar systems on mountain peaks in its central region, enabling them to monitor activities deep within China, according to security sources. China has voiced strong disapproval of Taiwan President Lai Ching-te, who assumed office in May, labeling him a “separatist”. Since his inauguration, China has intensified its military pressure on Taiwan, including frequent war games near the island.
Taiwan Monitors Chinese Missile Tests in Inner Mongolia
