China to hold military drills
China will hold military drills between Hong Kong and Macao on August 23.
These drills are a continuation of China’s increased military activity and assertiveness in the South China Sea and Straits of Taiwan. A government spokesman described the drill as a necessary response to American provocations in the region, as well as a means to ensure sovereignty. This particular exercise comes on the heels of a recent American congressional delegation to Taiwan. U.S. Speaker of the House Pelosi’s visit to Taiwan earlier this month triggered a massive show of force by the Chinese military.
Military exercises and incursions into Taiwan’s air defense identification zone (ADIZ) by the Chinese military are key elements of China’s strategic messaging in the region. These actions provide a way for the Chinese government to signal displeasure with actions and policies, without committing offensive military actions. As U.S.-China relations continue to deteriorate, further similar actions are likely. As China continues its military actions, expect a muted response from both Taiwan and the United States as they assiduously avoid escalatory responses.
