PLA deploys fighters and destroyers in live-fire drill around Taiwan in wake of US arms deal
Military says it is conducting exercise across five areas near the self-governed island
Senior Colonel Shi Yi, a spokesman for the PLA’s Eastern Theatre Command, said on Monday that the exercise was a warning to “independence forces” and against external interference.
Shi said the exercise was being conducted by Eastern Theatre Command troops from the army, navy, air force and rocket force.
“It is a stern warning against ‘Taiwan independence’ separatist forces, and it is a legitimate and necessary action to safeguard China’s sovereignty and national unity,” Shi said.
Footage released by state broadcaster CCTV showed various PLA Navy warships, including Type 054A frigates and Type 052D guided-missile destroyers, conducting live-fire drills in the areas.