China has commenced extensive military exercises surrounding Taiwan, signalling a renewed show of force and issuing a stern warning to what it terms “separatist forces” on the self-ruled island.

Announced by China’s military, the drills involve naval and air units operating in the waters and airspace around Taiwan.

Beijing stated that the exercises aim to test combat readiness and demonstrate its capacity to “defend national sovereignty.”

Chinese officials framed the manoeuvres as a direct response to growing separatist activity and foreign interference, particularly from the United States and its allies.

Taiwan’s defence ministry said it was closely monitoring the situation, accusing Beijing of using intimidation and military pressure to destabilise the region.

The island has deployed forces to track Chinese aircraft and vessels involved in the exercises.

“These actions undermine peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait,” Taiwan’s government said, reaffirming its commitment to defending its democratic system and way of life.

China regards Taiwan as part of its territory and has not ruled out the use of force to bring the island under its control. Taiwan, however, maintains its own government, military, and foreign relations, operating as a de facto independent state.

Regional analysts have warned that such drills heighten the risk of miscalculation in one of Asia’s most sensitive flashpoints, particularly amid rising US-China tensions.

While no immediate escalation has been reported, the exercises underline Beijing’s determination to maintain pressure on Taipei and its readiness to back political warnings with military strength.