China Flexes Military Power: China is once again showing its military strength in a big way. Over the past few weeks in May 2025, Chinese navy and coast guard ships have been spotted in large numbers around Taiwan, southern Japan, and the East and South China Seas. This activity has raised concerns among nearby countries and global security experts.
Larger Fleets, More Pressure
According to reports, China deployed around 60 to 70 ships on May 21 and May 27 alone. These included powerful naval ships like guided-missile destroyers, frigates, and coast guard boats. In addition, China sent two aircraft carrier groups into action. The Shandong was seen in the South China Sea, while the Liaoning moved close to Taiwan’s southeastern coast.
A regional security official said, “They are trying to show control over the entire first island chain,” referring to a zone from Japan through Taiwan and the Philippines to Borneo. The official added that drills from the Liaoning even simulated attacks on foreign ships and aircraft. This kind of military build-up signals that China wants to assert dominance in these key waters.
Live-Fire Drills Add to the Tension
China has declared several live-fire zones off its coast in the last two weeks. One of these was directly facing Taiwan’s southwest region. Chinese state TV also aired footage of amphibious military drills in Fujian province, which lies just across the Taiwan Strait. Though exact locations weren’t revealed, these exercises clearly targeted Taiwan’s proximity.
Japan and the Philippines Respond
Japan is closely tracking China’s Liaoning carrier group as it passed through the southern Japanese islands into the Western Pacific. Japan’s top government spokesperson, Yoshimasa Hayashi, said they are watching the movements closely and stepping up surveillance. He noted that China appears to be preparing for long-distance naval operations far from its shores.
The Philippines has also spoken out. Rear Admiral Roy Vincent Trinidad, a top navy spokesperson, said that China’s “illegal presence” in regional waters is threatening peace in Southeast Asia. He also pointed out the contradiction between China’s military actions and its public message of “peaceful rise.”
Tensions Rise Over Taiwan Again
These developments also come just as Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te marked one year in office. China considers him a “separatist” and has held three rounds of war games since his inauguration. Taiwan’s defence ministry confirmed that the Liaoning was near the island this week and said it would increase combat readiness based on threat levels.
China’s Response
While many nations are alarmed by this aggressive naval activity, China insists its actions are legal. A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said the ships are operating within international law and urged Japan to view the moves “objectively and rationally.”
China’s strong military presence near Taiwan and Japan is causing real concern in the region. With live-fire drills, large naval fleets, and aircraft carriers on the move, the message from Beijing is loud and clear: they want control and are ready to show it. Meanwhile, neighbours like Japan, Taiwan, and the Philippines are watching closely and preparing their responses.
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FAQs
Why is China sending more ships near Taiwan and Japan?
China is showing its military strength and trying to assert control over strategic waters in East Asia.
How many ships did China deploy recently?
On May 21 and 27, China deployed about 60 to 70 ships, including navy and coast guard vessels.
What is Taiwan’s response?
Taiwan has increased its combat preparedness after spotting Chinese aircraft carriers nearby.
How is Japan reacting?
Japan is tracking the movement of Chinese warships and stepping up its monitoring activities.
Is this related to the Taiwan president’s anniversary in office?
Yes, experts say the Chinese military action is partly aimed at President Lai Ching-te, whom China sees as a separatist.
