Significant Chinese Aircraft and Naval Movements Around Taiwan: 59 Aircraft, 9 Vessels, 2 Balloons
The paths of the aircraft sorties indicate operations in multiple directions around Taiwan, including near the Matsu Islands, Wujiu, and areas south of Kinmen and Dongsha Island.
TAIPEI—On March 18, 2025, Taiwan's Ministry of Defense released a report detailing the People's Liberation Army (PLA) 's military activities in the waters and airspace surrounding Taiwan, which included 59 military aircraft, 9 vessels, and 2 balloons.
Overview of PLA Activities
During the 24-hour period, a total of 59 PLA aircraft and 9 PLA Navy (PLAN) vessels were detected operating around Taiwan.
Of the 59 aircraft sorties, 43 crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan’s Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ) in the northern, central, southwestern, and eastern regions. The median line is an unofficial boundary in the Taiwan Strait, often used as a reference for monitoring military movements.