In September 2023, the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) intensified its air operations in the Taiwan area, indicating rising tensions in the region and China's potential preparation for possible military intervention.

According to a map reflecting the actions of the PRC air forces, 565 aircraft were detected in the Taiwan air defense identification zone in September. It is noteworthy that almost 40% of them, namely 225 aircraft, crossed the so-called “median line” - the de facto border that self-proclaimed Taiwan considers its air territory.

This increased Chinese air presence near Taiwanese airspace cannot be ignored. This is a clear demonstration of Beijing's power and determination to increase pressure on Taiwan in the context of the ongoing conflict over the island's status.

China traditionally considers Taiwan its integral part and reacts extremely negatively to the island’s attempts to assert its independence or strengthen international ties, bypassing Beijing.

These actions by the PLA can be interpreted as a strategic move aimed at demonstrating China's resolve on the Taiwan issue, as well as testing the reaction of the international community and the Taiwanese themselves to such actions.