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Chinese Drone Sparks Taiwan Complaint Over Pratas Islands
Taiwan criticizes China after a drone flew over the Pratas Islands, calling the move provocative and harmful to stability.
Taiwan has raised concerns after a Chinese reconnaissance drone flew over the Pratas Islands in the South China Sea on Saturday. Officials in Taipei described the incident as provocative and irresponsible.
Drone Flight
Taiwan’s defence ministry said the drone entered the airspace above the Pratas at dawn. It stayed for eight minutes before leaving. Taiwan broadcast radio warnings on international channels during the incident.
Officials said the actions damaged regional peace and violated international norms. The ministry added that Taiwan would remain alert and follow regular combat readiness rules.
Tensions With China
China has increased air and sea activity around Taiwan in recent years. Beijing claims Taiwan as part of its territory. Taiwan reports on Chinese movements almost every day. Drone flights are frequent, but they rarely enter the island’s airspace.
Strategic Location
The Pratas lie between southern Taiwan and Hong Kong. They are more than four hundred kilometers from Taiwan’s main island. Security analysts say the distance makes them vulnerable to a possible Chinese attack.
The atoll is lightly defended and also serves as a national park. It sits at a strategic point at the top of the disputed South China Sea. China also claims the Pratas. Taiwan rejects China’s claim.
Past Drone Incident
In 2022, Taiwan’s military shot down an unidentified civilian drone near a Taiwan-controlled islet close to China’s coast. The action followed repeated incursions in the area.
