China Deploys Over 100 Vessels in Largest Show of Force in East Asia to Date

このページを日本語で読む

China has deployed more than 100 naval and coast guard vessels across key waters of East Asia, in what Taiwanese officials and intelligence sources describe as one of Beijing's largest maritime operations to date, according to Reuters and statements from Taiwan's government.

Multiple intelligence officials told Reuters that the surge began in mid-November, shortly after Beijing protested Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's Diet comments on a potential Taiwan contingency. Since then, China has maintained a markedly elevated presence at sea, far above normal levels.

The flotilla has been operating across an unusually vast expanse, stretching from the southern Yellow Sea and East China Sea through the South China Sea and out into the western Pacific. As of the morning of December 4, more than 90 Chinese vessels remained active, with the total surpassing 100 at its peak.

Taiwanese officials had previously disclosed that in December 2024, China deployed nearly 100 vessels along the First Island Chain — a strategic arc running from the waters off Kyushu through Okinawa and Taiwan to the Philippines. At the time, it was considered the largest maritime operation China had ever conducted. If the latest numbers are accurate, this year's deployment exceeds even that unprecedented scale.

Taiwan Responds

On November 26, Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te warned that China is accelerating its military buildup to achieve unification by force. He announced a special NT$1.25 trillion (approximately $38.7 billion USD) defense budget to be invested over the next eight years through 2033. The move immediately drew strong objections from Beijing.

*President Lai Ching-te of Taiwan delivers an address with the Taiwanese flag in the background — July 1, at the Presidential Office in Taipei. (©Sankei by Yoshiaki Nishimi)*

In response to the Reuters report, the Presidential Office said on December 5 that President Lai has instructed the Ministry of National Defense and other relevant agencies to obtain a comprehensive assessment of the situation.

The spokesperson warned that "these military actions pose a serious threat to the entire Indo-Pacific region," and called on Beijing to "act responsibly and exercise restraint."

Possible Large-Scale Drills Within a Week

National Security Bureau director-general Tsai Ming-yen told reporters on December 3 that China typically intensifies its military operations in November and December. He said Taipei "does not rule out the possibility" that Beijing could stage large-scale exercises within the next week.

Taiwanese media have also cited security officials who say that, amid rising Japan–China tensions, Beijing may launch a major exercise within days if it fails to secure a diplomatic "breakthrough."

Notably, when China deployed nearly 100 ships in December 2024, it did not formally declare any military drills. This suggests that the current operation may likewise continue without an official announcement.

Background: Rising Tensions With Japan and the Region

China's latest deployment follows a sharp diplomatic exchange in mid-November, when Beijing summoned Japan's ambassador to protest Prime Minister Takaichi's Diet remarks that a Taiwan contingency could directly affect Japan's security.

Since that diplomatic protest, China has maintained an expanded maritime posture, operating well above its usual activity levels around Japan, Taiwan, and the wider Indo-Pacific.

Recent imagery has also shown China Coast Guard vessels maneuvering near the Senkaku Islands, underscoring Beijing's continued pressure on Japan's administration of the uninhabited islets.

What Comes Next

With more than 100 Chinese naval and coast guard ships spread across multiple seas, Taipei sees the situation as a test of regional resolve.

President Lai has made clear that Taiwan will keep bolstering its defenses, while security agencies caution that the coming week could bring further escalation.

Whether Beijing formally announces exercises or keeps the operation unofficial, Taiwanese officials view the deployment as a strategic signal. They also see it as a reminder of how quickly the security landscape around the First Island Chain is shifting.

Author: Yoshiaki Nishimi, The Sankei Shimbun

このページを日本語で読む