China deploys record 125 warplanes in large-scale military drill in warning to Taiwan

Associated Press

TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP) — Taiwan’s defense ministry says China used 125 military aircraft in exercises aimed at Taiwan, a record for a single day. It says 90 of the aircraft, including warplanes, helicopters and drones, were spotted within Taiwan’s air defense identification zone. China launched large-scale military exercises on Monday aimed at warning against Taiwanese independence. China said the drills were successfully completed as of Monday evening. Taiwan’s Presidential Office called on China to “cease military provocations that undermine regional peace and stability and stop threatening Taiwan’s democracy and freedom.” China regularly sends military aircraft and ships towards the self-ruled island, while also claiming sovereignty over the island. Taiwan in practice is self-ruled.